RegisteredOfficers’ with RNI, DelhiVoice, Regn. No.January KARENG/2005/14831 2019 1

438 Vol 37 - 7 January, 2019

January will write foreword for another change of sheets and explanations), Branch Managers were guard at the top in Corporation Bank. It will not be at ease as they were not forced to go to market out of place to evaluate, what we gained and what and “book any credit proposal” to satisfy their we lost in the last three years. bosses. (It was the other extreme when a few Zonal administrations and certain functionaries at The first and foremost in this is the visible and HO dissuaded the BMs from booking proposals of appreciable management of Bank’s Balance Sheet. At any nature!) altogether an odd time, with all the negative industry phenomenon ruling in the Bank too, sustained Thirdly, Bank embarked upon an unprecedented actions brought the Bank back into the reckoning in recovery mission – Halla Bol, Zore Se Halla Bol, terms of needy trimming the size of Balance Sheet OTS, Compromises, SARFAESI actions – the entire (which CBOO had suggested way back in 2013-14), Bank was on a single move – recover, recover and shedding the bulk, improving in cost of deposits (by recover (without any corresponding lend and lend). bringing it down) and the like. One may question the A big contingent of armed forces was deployed in reduction in the size of Balance Sheet – the way in Recovery Division, HO for this purpose and Bank which deposits and advances were brought down. scored high points in this direction (However, a tiny But it was warranted after the injurious bulk deposits section used this only for a ‘Photo Ops’). and advances which bloated the size of Balance In contrast to all the above, the most painful Sheet instantly, but impacted the health of the Bank development during the tenure was the loss of very in terms of cost and NPAs. The worries may further valued and long standing customers of the Bank. recede in the next fiscal with probable exit of the Bank The Finacle has given body-blow to the business; from PCA. the snags in internet banking further increased Secondly, the Branches breathed freely due to absence the gap between the Bank and the customers. of any pressure to lend. After witnessing forceful daily The ‘Feel Good’ factor clouded the reality. No lending, persuasive agricultural lending, targeted effort was made to peep beyond, “Everything is retail lending and massive corporate lending in the OK and under control” reporting and briefing. The successive previous regimens (subsequently leading realisation of the crippling problem itself took a lot to the tsunami of suspensions, dismissals, charge of time. Corrective actions came after inordinate

Editor Asso.Asso. Editor Editor Members Advisor Edited and Published by Ekanath Baliga G. SatishRaghuraman Shetty H.S. Vishwanath T.R. Bhat Ekanath Baliga Satish Shetty K.B. Prasada Y. Sudhindra on behalf of the Owners : Printed by: Founder Editor : Sri T.R. Bhat Corporation Bank Officers’ M. Rajesh Dange Licensed to Post Under Organisation (Regd.) Codeword Process & Printers LicensedLicense to MNG/128/2015-17 Post Under License 106, Lobo Prabhu Court Falnir, Mangalore - 575 001 L/MNG/128/2018-20& SK/MNG/WPP/7 & SK/MNG/WPP/7 Light House Hill Road, Mangalore - 575 001 e-mail: [email protected] * Visit us @ our website:www.cboo.org * Phone: CBOO Central Office : 2422712, 2422501 * CBOO CENTRE : 2493 698 Officers’ Voice, JanuaryJanuary 20192019 2 delay. By the time, the damage had already been in Scale I, II, and III (rarely above that). Unseen caused. Reluctance to act upon the feedback hands involved in pressurising, forcing and and promptly was visible frequently. Reluctance dictating, merrily survived. Threats of suspension to establish, continue and find customer contact and dismissals during the Video Conferencing has been another factor in loss of business and dampened the spirits of the officers. Vigilance absence of fresh connections. machinery was made to work overnight and Bipartism was at serious loss during the period. overboard. Relationship was existing. But there was no Every optimist will feel that in an institution’s warmth (like the ‘about to be divorced couple’). Balance Sheet only assets must be visible. The trust was betrayed when a particular None wants liabilities or to be that. But in our agreement was negated to be implemented - Bank, during the last three years, our actual and unheard in the history of bilateralism in the Bank intrinsic assets have dwindled. Our goodwill has as well as industry. In the 98th Joint Meeting taken a severe beating; our reputation, tonsored; held in July, 2017, it was agreed to enhance the our name, tarnished; our liabilities (not financial) EHPL limit for officers. But behind the back, there increased multi-fold; our human assets lost their was deceit – the proposal was buried alive on sheen. Whether the leader is responsible or the unacceptable and flimsy grounds – not befitting followers - either way, Bank has suffered. As a any top management. Even a team of four senior trade union, though we had a relationship, it had most General Managers had to eat the humble no significance due to lack of responsiveness as pie – their mediation was a vein effort after nothing moved properly, despite our best efforts. the discussions (and consequent concurrence Self-righteousness as a trait of the leader, with them too) were belied. A similar unilateral has never yielded positive results anywhere. action of disrespect to the employees was in Relationship is built beyond tea and biscuits; gifting silver coins during Deepavali festival this relationship becomes irrelevant when warmth year - only to the staff working at HO (and not turns into chill of silence, inaction and neglect. to those in Branches). The employees of M/s. Let’s look forward with more optimism. Wipro – the Service Integrator for Finacle – were OV found fit; but the toiling soldiers in the field were considered as unequals, misfit for the gift (small although in value). The approach towards the C O N T E N T S workforce was lacklustre, cynical and devoid of Page No. any seriousness. CBOO News...... 3 There was a total indifference towards the AIBOC News...... 3 burning issue of manpower requirement. When CBROA News...... 7 there was a possibility to recruit, misnomer Letter to the Management...... 8 called “SURPLUS” was quoted not to act. When marginal realisation occurred, PCA played the Banking Round up...... 12 spoil sport. Though Bank has been reeling under Class Room...... 37 the shortage affecting the branches and other Letters to the Editor...... 39 offices, no worthy actions came forth in time. Article...... 41 Disciplinary actions against the workforce were Retirements...... 43 merciless. The period recorded the highest Circular Round up...... 46 ever suspensions in the recent past, crossing Miscellany...... 49 quarter of a century. Dismissals and compulsory Health Watch...... 50 retirements too have competed with this number. In Lighter Vein...... 52 But the victims were only the hapless officers Officers’ Voice, January 2019 3

b. Adverse impact on business at Chand Kheda cboo News branch due to frequent deputations (outward).

c. Shortage of one officer at SC Road due to long BRANCH VISITS deputation of one officer to ZO. MEERUT - Krishna Prasad, Zonal Secretary a. Zonal Secretary, Amit Yadav, Deputy Zonal THANE Secretary, Ravi Kumar Verma and Area Secretary Shyam Lal visited Saharanpur, Alok Paul, Deputy General Secretary, Uday Khade, Dehradun – Main, Jakhan and Connaught Assistant General Secretary, Sanjay Hile, Circle Place on 3rd October. They visited Haldwani, Secretary, Deepak Vaghela, Zonal Secretary and Gaujajali Bichli, Kichha and Rudrapur Veena Kulgod, Zonal Chairman (Elect) visited Virar, branches on 4th and Jaspur, Kashipur, Pakbara Nallasapora and Vasai- Navghar branches on 7th and Moradabad – Main on 5th. December. b. Zonal Secretary, Amit Yadav, Deputy Zonal - Deepak Vaghela, Zonal Secretary Secretary, Ravi Kumar Verma and Shushant Yadav, Activist visited Mathura, Agra – Aiboc News Main, Sanjay Place, Shamshabad Road and th Kamalanagar Branches on 6 October. (PRESS RELEASE DATED 10/12/2018) c. Zonal Secretary, Amit Yadav and Zonal Lady AIBOC ANNOUNCES 24 HOUR NATIONWIDE Secretary, Archana Bisht visited Amwala STRIKE ON 21ST DECEMBER 2018 Tarala, Arkedia Grant and Soda Sarali on 1st November. ALL INDIA BANK OFFICERS’ CONFEDERATION (AIBOC) announces a nationwide strike call on Members brought following issues to the notice of 21st December, 2018 demanding inter-alia, full visiting functionaries: and unconditional mandate for the XIth Bipartite a. Shortage of one clerk at Jakhan, Agra - wage revision talks based on Charter of Demands Shamshabad Road, Kamalanagar and Soda submitted by four officers’ organisations viz. Sarali; one officer at Dehradun – Main, Amwala AIBOC, AIBOA, NOBO and INBOC on the minimum Tarala and Arkedia Grant (based on sanctioned wages concept, Focus on Core Business and strength). NPA Recovery, Abolishing New Pension Scheme, b. Requirement of an AFO at Kichha, Rudrapur. Updation/Revision of Pension and Family Pension et al, while opposing the Amalgamation of Vijaya c. Need for renovation of Mathura Branch. Bank, Dena Bank and Bank of Baroda, Merger/ d. Need to Shift Agra – Main Branch. amalgamation of Regional Rural Banks, Attack and Assault on Bank officers across the country, - Amit Yadav, Zonal Secretary Reduction of existing medical benefits, and Steep AHMEDABAD hike in insurance premium of retirees etc. Anand Kumar Sahu, Circle Secretary, Krishna It is worthwhile mentioning here that the Department Prasad, Zonal Secretary and Pratik Joshi, Area of Financial Services, as early as on 12th January, Secretary visited Ahmedabad – S C Road, Naroda, 2016 had urged the IBA and the member banks Vatva, Vastral, Odhav – SME, Maninagar, Chand to expedite the wage revision process so that the Kheda and New Ranip Branches on 9th October. new wage structure can be implemented on the effective date i.e., 01st November 2017. In spite Following issues were observed: of this communication and also many reminders a. Need for an additional officer at Vatva in view of from the Government, the negotiations ultimately large advances (and near to Nil NPAs). commenced only on 02nd May 2017!

May my body become fit, may my tongue become sweet, may I hear much in my ears. - Taittiriya Upanishad Officers’ Voice, January 2019 4

AIBOC notes with serious concern that absolutely only detrimental to the Indian banking industry, no headway has been made in the process so far even but inimical to the interest of the common man. after the lapse of 19 months since the discussions AIBOC is protesting and mobilizing public opinion have begun. The lack of urgency becomes quite against this proposed merger across the country. evident when one considers the fact that IBA has The merger of PSU Banks along with Regional not been able to obtain “Unconditional Mandate”, Rural Banks will result in closure of hundreds of the basic authority given by all the member banks bank branches and affect the flow of credit to the to IBA to negotiate on their behalf with the trade rural sector, which will affect the agriculturists, unions, from 5 Major Banks till date. It has been farmers, MSMEs, SHGs, Women, students and the a practice in the Bipartite Settlements so far, to common man. The merger of State Bank of India negotiate salary structure of officers up to Scale VII. with its Associate Banks has already proved that AIBOC believes that it is nothing but a farcical logic it was a disaster as SBI posted a humongous loss to restrict the wage negotiations up to the officers in FY’18. AIBOC will oppose this proposal in all in Scale III whereas the entire officers’ community possible forums. is covered under unified Service Regulations. The corporate masters who are trying to enter the AIBOC strongly opposes the current move to restrict Public Sector Banking space are already showing the salary settlements only up to Scale III by citing their true colour in Catholic Syrian Bank by non-receipt of the ‘unconditional mandates’ from 5 unleashing mayhem inside the Bank. The HR banks as a reason whereas as many as 15 banks situation in IDBI Bank is another key issue in our from the Public Sector and 2 Private Sector Banks Strike call. AIBOC will be in the forefront in both have already given ‘unconditional mandates’. these institutions to ensure that sanity is restored AIBOC in its Charter of Demand, submitted to IBA and normalcy returned. for negotiations, has clearly demanded that the Issues explained above will show that situations salary settlement for the officers’ community has are allowed to worsen in many spheres so that a to be on ‘Minimum Wage Concept’. Negotiating congenial atmosphere is created for the backdoor Committee of the IBA seems to be showing scant entry of corporates and NBFCs as probable saviours regard for this important demand; so far it has not into the Indian banking industry. Whereas it is come out to discuss with us based on the lines crystal clear that, it is the ‘Public Sector Banks’ of minimum wage concept and ‘equal work-equal which have shouldered the responsibilities of wage’ principle stressed upon in the Charter of ‘Nation Building’ and there is no case here for Demands, thereby digressing once again from the any other saviour per se. AIBOC will make all out Pillai Committee Recommendation of restoring efforts to ensure that the sanctity of the Public parity in wages and perquisites of bank officers Sector is preserved and the common man will have with civil service officers. Instead of discussing no barriers in accessing basic banking needs. based on our Charter of Demands, IBA has been offering pittance in terms of percentages in the AIBOC will, therefore, observe a 24 hour negotiations so far. AIBOC representatives had Nationwide Strike on 21st December 2018 excused themselves during the wage revision talks Opposing:- held on 30th November, 2018 on failing to get any • IBA’s reluctance to honour the ‘unconditional assurance from IBA on the mandate issue. mandate’ submitted by the majority of The Strike call also features the burning issue of theBanks and attempts to limit the scope of the announcement proposing to merge 3 Public the Bipartite Negotiations only up to scale Sector Banks and the consolidation of Regional III. Rural Banks. The merger announcement dated • The proposed merger of Bank of Baroda, 17th September 2018, proposing to merge Bank of Vijaya Bank and Dena Bank and the Baroda, Vijaya Bank & Dena Bank was defying all amalgamation of Regional Rural Banks norms, even defying the Parliament. This is not

Ascetics come to grief through greed. - Panchatantra Officers’ Voice, January 2019 5

• IBA’s reluctance to carry forward the settlement talk covering officers upto Scale-III. It negotiations as per the Charter of Demands is really surprising that only 15 banks have given submitted by the 4 officers’ organisations unconditional mandate and authorised the IBA to negotiate up to scale VII. The five banks which • Unabated attack on bankers in various parts have given restricted mandate are SBI, PNB, BOB, of the country while discharging official Indian Bank and Union Bank. Despite having duties. clear mandate from 15 banks, IBA is insisting on • Unilateral reduction of medical benefits of restricting discussion only up to Scale III, which officers. clearly indicates that they are not seriously interested for a reasonable, time bound, decent • Dictatorial and oppressive regime in Catholic wage settlement covering all scale of officers’. The Syrian Bank and major HR issues in IDBI issue was taken up with Department of Financial Bank. Services, who assured to resolve the mandate issue, but there is no progress in that direction. And other related issues. IBA has also introduced a new concept of (AIBOC Circular No. 2018/91 dated Performance Linked Pay based on Gross Operating 13.12.2018) Profit and Return on Assets. This is nothing but PROPOSED STRIKE ON 21.12.2018 BY AIBOC an extension of the game plan to divide the bank officers’ in particular and bank employees’ in We reproduce the letter no. AIBOC/2018/98 general by offering the so called Performance linked dated 13.12.2018 addressed to various Retirees’ Pay in utter disregard to the idea of bilaterally Associations of the banking industry for your settled industry level wage agreement. In the above information. backdrop AIBOC as per decision of its Executive With greetings, Committee Meeting has no other alternative but to excuse themselves from further negotiation with Yours sincerely, IBA and resort to agitation program including strike Sd/- action on 21st December, 2018. (SOUMYA DATTA) GENERAL SECRETARY There are other important issue like merger of banks, restoration of work life balance, industrial (Text of Letter No. AIBOC/2018/98 dated relation issue in IDBI Bank & Catholic Syrian 13.12.2018) Bank, cross – selling of third party product, attack The General Secretary/ Convenor and assault on bankers in the line of service. AIBPARC/AIBRF/CBPRO/FSBIPA You will surely appreciate that the strike is also on the issue of family pension/ updation of pension, Dear Comrade, immediate extension of pension benefit in line with PROPOSED STRIKE ON 21.12.2018 BY AIBOC benefit available in public sector banks to Regional Rural Banks as directed by Supreme Court and All India Bank Officers’ Confederation (AIBOC) opposing the steep increase in mediclaim premium is approaching you at a critical juncture when for retirees’ despite strong and reasoned objection the legacy and the rights earned through years of AIBOC. This has been done in recognition by of struggle so assiduously built with the sweat of AIBOC of the fact that the retirees’ issues are also Seniors is under threat from the diabolical game an integral part of wage settlement and the story plan of IBA to carry forward the negotiation based will remain incomplete unless we struggle together on fractured mandate. blessed with your presence and support. You are all aware that there is little progress We, therefore, request your active support and in wage revision talks due to inflexible and participation in strike call on 21st December and stubborn insistence of IBA to conclude the wage all programmes to protect our hard earned rights.

It is much easier to be critical than correct. - Benjamin Disraeli Officers’ Voice, January 2019 6

A copy of our strike notice served on IBA and DFS and comes out ever strong as the financial pillar with detail recital on issues along with our circular of Indian Economy. This is a strike to establish on strike detailing the programme is enclosed. the dignity and self-esteem of officers. This strike is for the youth, who would carry forward the legacy. The unflinching support from your organisation This strike is for our seniors, who need us to fight will guarantee that the legacy of the movement will their battles. This strike is for the farmers, workers, not only be maintained but be taken to a new high women, students, pensioners and the common addressing the aspirations of the entire banking man, who need PSU Banks to survive and spread fraternity. wings.

With best regards, As we march on to the historical strike, we would Yours sincerely, like to remind everyone that:

Sd/- F Probationary officers are very much a part of the (SOUMYA DATTA) officers’ community and all such officers who GENERAL SECRETARY are members of AIBOC can definitely participate in this historical strike without any fear. Being Circular No. 2018/94 dated 21.12.2018 part of Association is a Constitutional Right History beckons - Strike Commences that every citizen in the country carries.

The overwhelming response throughout the country, F Participating in strike will not affect the pension in all the preparatory programs announced by or any other retirement benefits as this issue AIBOC, is that the historical 24 hours Strike is going has been clarified by IBA beyond every doubt. to be become a major positive turning point in the F No comrade will attend training programmes if Bank Officers’ Trade Union Movement in the country. any, scheduled by the Banks. AIBOC has taken a firm and principled stand that it cannot be a party anymore to negotiations where F No comrade will hand over the Branch / the foundation called ‘unconditional mandate’ Premises Keys. is not established. On the contrary, the IBA’s We are getting an excellent feedback from across regressive stance indicates that it would be purely the country in response to our strike call. From conditional. AIBOC has also firmly declared that Kashmir to Kanyakumari; from Ahmedabad to the basic premise upon which the negotiations had Aizawl, the mood of our comrades is exuberant and to be based was the Charter of Demands, which is combative. The infectious enthusiasm with which based on ‘minimum wages’ concept as has been they have built up the momentum in the run up to submitted by the 4 Officers’ organizations and the strike is perhaps unparalleled. Our members not on some arbitrary percentages that are being are jubilant and thousands of officers across the ‘generously’ offered. AIBOC has also unequivocally country have held demonstrations and rallies. rejected the incongruous ‘performance linked pay Senior Officers in SMGS IV & V and executives are structure’ as was offered by IBA. now convinced about the seriousness and situation AIBOC’s decisions are driven by aspirations of the in which they will be placed, if kept out of purview youth, rich experience of the seniors and a firm of wage negotiation. Many have come out in the belief we are obligated to ensure an environment open to declare boldly that they would be joining which can attract and retain youthful talent, both the strike. But, there could be some Banks, who for the future generations and also for the growth of might threaten them to join work and declare them banking industry. The response of the youth to the as non-strikers. Such dastardly attempts have been call of AIBOC is ample proof of the fact that they are going on for ages and it is nothing but exploitation willing to take up the gauntlet, are prepared to make of human frailty for pleasing the powers that be. any sacrifice and shoulder responsibilities to make The ‘Arrogance of Power’ can only be countered by sure that the industry weathers the present storm the ‘Arrogance of Unity’. It is our conscious efforts

It is necessary for the happiness of man that he be mentally faithful to himself. - Thomas Paine Officers’ Voice, January 2019 7 to be ONE that can defeat the saboteurs. a like rock and have helped them in reaching today’s position. We urge upon them to remember Comrades, let us march on with all conviction and the formative years. It is only the Association that converge in large numbers in all the agitational can fight for the legitimate rights. programs slated to happen today and the days to come. This is just the commencement of a LONG LIVE OUR UNITY. LET US ENSURE protracted battle. We will not stop till we achieve SUCCESS OF STRIKE FOR THE WELFARE OF our demands. Let us remember that as long as we OFFICERS’ FRATERNITY, INDUSTRY and THE stay united, none can break us. Where Unity and COMMON MAN. Solidarity succeeds, nothing fails!! In the same With revolutionary greetings, breath, we would like to have a word to our senior officers and executives. Today the facilities, perks, Comradely yours, environment, promotions, career and the comfort Sd/- the seniors/ executives enjoy are only on account of (Soumya Datta) the sacrifices, relentless efforts of the Associations General Secretary and the struggle and the support of innumerable Officer members to achieve them. They have stood

cbroa news Body also elected the first Central Committee with Sri K Achutha Shenoy as President and Sri A P Kodancha as General Secretary of CBROA. (CBROA Circular No. 6/2018 dated 19.11.2018) CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL OF YOU The formation of CBROA gave the much needed WE ARE NOW 2000 PLUS STRONG fillip to the retired officers’ movement inour Bank and thereafter it was a saga of hard work We are extremely happy to announce that our to establish an identity for retired officers under membership has crossed 2000 mark. It is another the banner of CBROA. As retirements were few in milestone in the history of CBROA. This achievement the initial years, the organisation had to struggle is due to the efforts of our founding fathers and all to gain strength both in terms of membership as the leaders and activists, past and present. well as finance. It took almost 15 years to reach It was in 1996 that a few activists under the the mark of 500 whereas next 500 members were leadership of Sri K Achutha Shenoy, felt the need added within a period of two years to reach 1000 to form an association of retired officers as there mark. During the last four years we have added was no organisation to look after the interest another 1000 members thanks to the efforts made of retired officers. They approached CBOO and by the office bearers and members and also whole sought assistance in this regard. CBOO extended hearted support from CBOO. full co-operation. A meeting of retired officers was As on date our membership stands at 2004. organised on 27th July 1996 at Hotel Srinivas which was presided over by Sri T R Bhat, then President On this joyous occasion we express our sincere of CBOO. The meeting decided to constitute a gratitude to Sri K Achutha Shenoy who took the Steering Committee with Sri K Achutha Shenoy as initiative to form the Association and became its Convenor, assisted by 6 other activists as members founding President along with Sri A P Kodancha besides four office bearers nominated by CBOO as General Secretary. Sri Achutha Shenoy, the to assist the Committee. After several rounds of architect of CBROA served the Association with meetings, the Steering Committee decided to hold distinction for 15 years and thereafter he expressed the first General Body Meeting which was held on his desire to step down on account of his health. 16th February, 1997 in which the bye-laws were CBROA will remain for ever indebted to him for approved and the Corporation Bank Retired Officers’ leading the Association with total devotion under Association (CBROA) became a reality. The General adverse circumstances and giving it an identity. We

Discretion of speech is more than eloquence. - Francis Bacon Officers’ Voice, January 2019 8 express our gratitude to all the past office bearers Employees and Officers working in Head and activists who served the Association and made Office. It is also learnt that similar silver it what it is today. We are also grateful to CBOO coins were distributed to employees of and its leadership for extending its full support and Wipro/Infosys working in New Core Banking co-operation in formation and thereafter till date. Solution, Car Street, Mangalore. We, on behalf of the Central Committee and on our 2.0 We understand that similar gesture had personal behalf thank all the office bearers and not been extended to the Corp Bankers at members, past and present for their support which Branches, Zonal/Circle and other offices. have made this milestone a reality. This has caused a severe heart burn Friends, while it is an occasion to rejoice on among them due to a feeling of neglect and reaching this historic milestone, let us not forget the discrimination. We further understand that challenges before us in the form of issues affecting Zonal/Circle Offices have not extended any the retired officers in our Bank in particular and in such similar thing during festival season. the industry in general. In order to find solutions to these issues, there is a need for greater unity 3.0 Our colleagues working in branches have among retired officers. It casts a responsibility contributed their mite in handling various on each one of us to strengthen CBROA in every difficult situations like Demonetisation, manner. There are a large number of retirees who Finacle Migration, difficulties during Server are yet to join our fold. It is the duty of each one Response Issues, Internet Banking issues, of us to strengthen CBROA further by contacting Recovery of NPAs etc. In fact it was our field these retired officers. Hence, when you meet any of functionaries who burnt their midnight oil to your retired officer friends next time, please enquire complete the work and also faced the fuming with him whether he is a member of CBROA and if customers during all these difficult times. not, persuade him to join our fold. We also request In view of the above, we request you to instruct the you to assist the Central Committee members in authorities to take steps to distribute similar silver your Centre in membership development. coins amongst all employees of the Bank, which On behalf of the Central Committee, we assure you will be great step to spread positivity and it will be that we will make every effort in upholding the rich a sign of appreciation for the contribution made by legacy of CBROA and strive towards betterment of them for the growth of the Bank. They will cherish retired officers in our Bank and taking CBROA to Bank’s gesture and memorable memento always. the next level. Thanking you,

CBROA ……………………… ZINDABAD Sd/- CBOO ……………………...... ZINDABAD [SATISH SHETTY] AIBPARC …………...... ZINDABAD GENERAL SECRETARY

ALL FOR ONE ... ONE FOR ALL (Letter No. CO/201/ 307 /2018 dated 21/11/2018) letters to the Management The Managing Director & CEO, (Letter No. CO/ 201/341/2018 dated 01.12.2018) Corporation Bank, Head Office, The Managing Director & CEO, Mangaladevi Temple Road, Corporation Bank, HO, MANGALORE – 575 001. MANGALORE Dear Sir, Dear Sir, Sub: Gift of silver coin distributed to Staff in HO Sub: Transfer Process – Need for Certain and employees of Wipro/Infosys Corrective Actions 1.0 We congratulate the Administration for The Bank has formulated a transfer policy after the good gesture shown on the occasion of an understanding between the Management and Deepavali by distributing Silver Coins to our CBOO 3 decades ago and the same has been Officers’ Voice, January 2019 9 modified from time to time, depending upon the schools/colleges by paying hefty donation on requirements of the Bank and keeping in mind the account of delay. The academic session too had problems faced by the officers. The Transfer Policy commenced almost 30-45 days earlier by then. has been followed by and large in its true spirit c. In view of the uncertainty/delay in transfers, keeping the morale of the officers of the Bank high, officers are not confident of seeking TCof except a few aberrations. their wards, in the present place of posting. We write to bring to your kind notice, certain Many schools (at the present place of posting) issues related with transfers during the previous demand full year’s fee and donation, if they are years, especially during 2018, affecting the officers to issue the TC - thus causing huge financial adversely, for necessary corrective actions, during loss, burden, unbearable anxiety, hardship and the future processes: misery to officers. A. Inordinate Delay in Transfer Process: With the continued delay in receipt of transfer order, year after year, the morale of the officers is In earlier years, particularly up to 2007, orders going down every year which is reflected in the lack were released as early as January of the year, which of total commitment towards the Bank, unlike in indicated the officers to move to the new place/ the past decade. This has also impacted business Branch and at the same time facilitated him/her development and recovery. The Bank cannot to look for Schools and Colleges for admission of afford to overlook this issue, if it has to regain the his/her wards. Since the orders were issued well customer confidence and reputation as a customer in advance, every officer had a reasonable time friendly Bank. and opportunity to seek admission for their wards in decent schools and colleges, get such seats at Our Suggestions: comparatively lower amount of donation and more 1. Transfer process shall commence in February importantly, the wards will get the studies from the every year, as per the policy and process shall day one of the academic year at the new place of be completed by 31st March, every year. posting. In the process, the Bank too would get the services of the officers and Branch managers for 2. Officers shall be relieved promptly/immediately the first quarter of the financial year, contributing after annual auditing of the Branches and th to better business of the Bank. relieving shall be completed before 30 April of the year. Officers transferred and not relieved During 2018, the first list of transfer was released by then shall stand automatically relieved on rd in the 3 week of June, 2018 to total discomfiture 30th April. of officers. 3. As there had been inordinate delay in transfer and a. This delay resulted in uncertainties to officers relieving during the year 2018, consideration of in respect of seeking School Leaving/Transfer “TERM” of three years in 2021 shall be reckoned Certificates (TC) from the Schools and Colleges as June 30 of 2021 only and officers shall not at the present place of posting as well as an be deprived of transfer (then) on grounds of non- opportunity to seek admission at the new place completion of “TERM.” of posting, in time (well before the admission 4. Wherever, the Transfer orders are issued after process/tests are over). 31st March, the Bank shall:- b. By the time officers receive transfer orders, a) Reimburse the fees paid by the officers in admissions will be over everywhere. (almost respect of their wards, in the existing place 3-4 months prior). Consequently, the Officers of posting, while seeking a School Leaving/ will have to run from pillar to post for an Transfer Certificate. admission for their wards. Especially, since b) Reimburse the fees and donation paid by Kendriya Vidyalayas (Central Schools) are not the officers for admission of their wards in available in all centres, the officers were forced the new place of posting. to get admission for their wards in private

To love such friends the world desires Whose friendship has unbroken ties. - Thirukkural Officers’ Voice, January 2019 10

B. Relieving of Officers on Transfer: D. Transfers to Zonal Offices for Onward Posting:

In umpteen cases, the Zonal Offices and Branches Head Office has effected a few transfers this do not relieve the officers on transfer even after an year posting the officers to Zonal Office/s with a inordinate delay of 3 - 4 months after receipt of the stipulation of “onward transfer” from Zonal Office. orders. Zonal Offices have been defiantly sending This has created a lot of inconvenience/hardships mails, WhatsApp messages to Branch Managers to officers. They are forced (after travelling from not to relieve the officers without the specific States like Bihar, UP, Madhya Pradesh etc.) to report permission from the ZH. This is indicative of feudal to Zonal Offices which transferred them again to approach and questioning the authority of the distances ranging from 50 to 400 K.M.s, including Head Office administration. Even in genuine cases a few remote centres. of health, admission and emergencies, belligerence E. Efforts to Curtail Joining Time: and authoritarianism rule the roost under the garb Officers are eligible for 7 days’ Joining Time after of non- posting of substitutes. The same standard relief from the old station before joining at the new is not applied when any Zonal Head or Branch Head place of posting. The same can also be availed of ELB and VLB are transferred. With or without for the purpose of shifting family or belongings, posting a substitute, they get relieved themselves if not availed before joining. A rare phenomenon even before the receipt of hard copy of transfer has been reported advising the officer/s to reduce orders. the number of days of JT and rejecting the JT Our Suggestions: application in HRMS. We are of the considered view that the Zonal Head does not have the authority a. Transferring Authority shall ensure that to instruct reduction of the number of days. It is substitutes/replacements are posted in place of established to request the officer/s to re-schedule all the officers transferred. the availment of JT, in case of urgencies and b. Officers transferred and not relieved by then unavoidable circumstances. shall stand automatically relieved on 30th April. F. Transfers by Zonal Offices: c. Oral, written and messaging – not to relieve The Head Office has delegated powers to transfer as also forcing relieving without permitting the officers up to Scale III by Zonal Offices, within the mandatory period shall be viewed from the angle Zone and by Circle Offices within the Circle. This of indiscipline and violation of the orders of the has created a lot of hardships: superior officers. 1. The transfers by Zonal/Circle Offices are C. Immediate Relief by Zonal Offices without effected after completion of the transfers by giving Mandatory Time: Head Office. This leads to further delay and in In quite contrast to the facts mentioned under ‘B’ Zones with vast geographical area, the officers above, a few Zonal (Feudal) Heads relieve the officers and their families suffer heavily. transferred by the Zonal Offices in less than 48 hours 2. In all these transfers, the Zonal/Circle Offices of issuance of the order. Some ZHs pressurise relieving have been sending the list of proposed transfers on the same day evening, to pre-empt efforts of the which the PAD, HO has been approving. Hence transferee from seeking modification/s or referring such a transfer becomes an extension of HO the matter to Head Office in cases of unjustified or transfers which can be avoided. disadvantageous transfers – all in the name of so called (highly misused) ‘EXIGENCY OF SERVICE.’ 3. Officers transferred by Head Office, directly to the Branches, are again transferred by the It may be recalled that the policy provides for 30 Zonal Offices (without officers’ volition) which is days’ (for distance above 1000 K.M.s) and 15 days’ not in order. Transferring/posting the promoted (for shorter distances) time for relieving after receipt officers is the exclusive prerogative of HO. That of order (except a few specified circumstances). too is diluted by Zonal Offices by

Bear with hostiles when you meet them Fell down their head in fateful time. - Thirukkural Officers’ Voice, January 2019 11 further transferring these officers. Surprisingly, requisite facilities to overcome the handicap. In Zonal Offices are doing this also after seeking our Bank also now we have substantial number of approval from PAD, HO. physically handicapped officers. Certain of these issues pertaining to them need a revisit/ revision 4. In most of the cases of transfers by Zonal Offices, to keep pace with the market realities: the broader policy guidelines relating to Term, Last Leg of Service, minimum time for relief after A. Visually Impaired Officers: issuance of orders have been observed only in breach. Even representation by the officers i. Visually impaired employees also constitute are bluntly turned down; when such issues are a good chunk. Provision of JAWS (Job Access taken up with logical explanations by the local with Speech) in Windows to all the visually functionaries of CBOO, it doesn’t find favour. impaired officers will enable them to function better. The software is the world’s most popular Suggestions: screen reader, developed for computer users a. Policy guidelines in respect of time for relief whose vision loss prevents them from seeing of officers (30 days and 15 days) shall be screen content or navigating with a mouse. honoured except in specific cases referred in The software allows blind or visually impaired the guidelines. users to read the text that is displayed on the computer screen with a speech synthesizer b. Transfer powers delegated to Zonal/Circle or Braille display. A screen reader is the Offices must be withdrawn and all transfers interface between the computer’s operating shall be effected centrally from HO within the system, its applications, and the user. Most time frame referred above, so as to avoid delay, of these officers are presently confined to uncertainty & victimisation/harassment by the working as telephone operators, thus denying Zonal (Feudal) Heads. them an opportunity to work at par with other c. Joining Time shall not be curtailed on any officers. It will also deprive them their right of ground. career progression in the Bank. While Bank has provided JAWS software to a few visually Yours sincerely, handicapped officers, majority of the others are Sd/- not provided. [ SATISH SHETTY ] ii. Most of the visually impaired officers are not GENERAL SECRETARY provided training in Finacle with interactive (Letter No. CO/201/ 325/2018 dated software. 22.11.2018) Suggestions: The Managing Director & CEO, I. All the visually handicapped officers shall Corporation Bank, be provided with JAWS software followed by Head Office, Mangaladevi Temple Road, training to all visually impaired employees with MANGALORE – 575 001 appropriate interactive software that will enable Dear Sir, them to perform at par with other officers.

Sub: Facilities to the Physically Handicapped II. The reimbursement towards spectacles coming Officers of the Bank under Staff Welfare Scheme shall be made henceforth by debit to General Charges of the The Government of India, with an intention to Bank. Since this expense is reimbursable from encourage the physically challenged persons in Staff Welfare Fund, with almost all the Welfare the society to live with dignity and without any Schemes are kept in suspended animation, inferiority is providing many amenities including these officers are deprived of these facilities. the reservations in employment and providing

It is the generous who makes the world appear a garden of roses. Officers’ Voice, January 2019 12

III. All such officers shall be given Finacle training D. Grievance redressal mechanism for at the earliest. handicapped: IV. The job allocation to visually impaired shall Presently, a Liaison Officer at Head Office is identified also be monitored by PAD, HO to ensure that to address the grievances of the officers under these they get equal opportunity at work place. categories. However, the approachability, responses and resolution of the grievances do not seem to be B. Officers - Hearing Impaired up to any satisfactory level. Postings on recruitment, i. This category of officers is provided with general transfers and transfers on promotion are hearing aids. The amounts of reimbursements made in violation of the Government guidelines; were fixed pretty long back and the same has representations are not properly heeded. increased substantially at present. We further Suggestions: understand that these officers are not provided It is suggested to constitute a small committee at the with the batteries for these machines which Head Office level to address the grievances of these cost substantially. 3 (three) Special Category officers. Representatives ii. All these expenses are reimbursable from Staff from management and nominees from employees’ Welfare Fund. Now that almost all the Welfare and officers’ unions may be included in the Schemes are kept in suspended animation, committee. Other modalities of the same may be these officers are deprived of these facilities. discussed with us. Suggestions: We request you to direct the Personnel Administration Division to discuss the above issues I. These facilities must be segregated from Staff in a Joint Meeting to finalise the same. Welfare Fund and introduced as Perquisite Schemes for Officers. With regards, Sd/- II. The reimbursement limits shall be revised based [SATISH SHETTY] on the present market rates with a provision to GENERAL SECRETARY attune to future increases. III. Cost of batteries used for the hearing aids must banking round up be reimbursed.

C. Physically Handicapped Officers Urjit Patel quits as Reserve Bank Governor i. Physically handicapped officers are provided In a clear signal of a major rift between the government with wheelchair and artificial limbs, once in five and the central bank, Urjit Patel on Monday stepped years. down as RBI Governor, about nine months ahead ii. All these expenses are reimbursable from Staff of the completion of his three-year term. This is Welfare Fund. Now that almost all the Welfare only the second time since independence that a Schemes are kept in suspended animation, sitting RBI Governor has quit. The previous one these officers are deprived of these facilities. to do so was Sri Benegal Rama Rau, who resigned before his second extended tenure expired, due to Suggestions: differences with the then Finance Minister. While I. These facilities must be segregated from Staff Patel cited “personal reasons", resignation follows Welfare Fund and introduced as Perquisite feuds between the RBI and the Government on a Schemes for Officers. host of issues including those relating to central bank autonomy, transferring RBI’s excess reserves II. The reimbursement limits shall be revised based to the government and relaxing the restrictive on the present market rates with a provision to Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) framework for a attune to future increases. state-owned banks.

A lie can travel half way round the world, while the truth is putting on its shoes. - Mark Twain Officers’ Voice, January 2019 13

The government had invoked the never-before- even as the Government accepted the resignation used Section 7 of the RBI Act to seek consultation of Urjit Patel. Das, who retired as Secretary, on some of these issues when it found the RBI top Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) in 2017, will brass not inclined to look into them. RBI insiders be the 25th Governor of the RBI. Das was the face of say the government may temporarily appoint the the Government during the demonetization exercise senior most Deputy Governor, NS Viswanathan, and used to brief the media almost on a daily basis as the Governor. The resignation comes just a day between November 9 and December 31, 2016. ahead of parliament beginning its Winter Session, Given the stormy relationship between the Finance election results to five State assemblies being Ministry and the RBI in recent times, Das may be able announced. The RBI’s central board is also slated to smoothen the ruffled feathers as he has been on to meet on December 14. the RBI board in his capacity as the DEA Secretary; -The Hindu Business Line-18/12/2018 the DEA is seen as the bridge between the Finance Ministry and the RBI. Though a post-graduate in Kotak Mahindra Bank drags RBI to court over History, number-cruncher Das was involved in dilution of promoter stakeholding the preparation of over half-a-dozen Budgets both Private sector lender Kotak Mahindra Bank has taken during the UPA and the NDA dispensations. He was the Reserve Bank of India to court over dilution of also instrumental in preparing the ground for the its promoter stake holding. In a regulatory filing on Goods and Services Tax. A Tamil Nadu cadre IAS Monday, the lender said it has filed a writ petition officer, Das superannuated in 2017 after 37 years with the Bombay High Court as it has not heard of service in the State as well as at the Centre. Post- from the RBI on whether the issuance of Perpetual retirement, the Centre appointed him the Sherpa Non-Convertible Preference Shares (PNCPS) meets for the G-20 summit and also nominated him on the requirements of lowering the promoter stake the 15th Finance Commission. This is not the first holding. The move comes just days before the time an IAS officer is being appointed RBI Governor. December 31 deadline set by the RBI expires. D Subbarao, Raghuram Rajan’s predecessor, was a “By way of abundant caution, the bank has today former civil servant, as were YV Reddy, RN Malhotra filed a writ petition with the Bombay High Court and S Venkitaramanan. to validate the bank’s position,” it said, adding - The Hindu Business Line, 19/12/2018 that it had issued PNCPS in August to dilute the promoter stake holding. The lender had, on August Relief for PSBs as Govt. excludes recap bonds 2, announced the completion of its PNCPS issue, from PSL target which, in effect, lowered the promoter stake to In a bid to alleviate the pressure on public sector 19.7 per cent of its paid-up capital The RBI had, banks (PSBs) to meet higher priority sector however, said that the move did not meet its lending (PSL) target due to their investments in requirements. Kotak Mahindra said it had then recapitalization bonds, the RBI has excluded these conveyed to the regulator that PNCPS forms a part bonds for the purpose of arriving at this target. For of the paid-up capital. each financial year, the PSL target, which includes -The Hindu Business Line, 11/12/2018 loans given by banks to agriculture, micro small and medium enterprises, export credit, education, Shaktikanta Das is the new RBI Governor housing, social infrastructure and renewable energy The Government today appointed Shaktikanta Das is set at 40 percent of the (adjusted) net bank credit as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, within (ANBC) as on March-end of the preceeding financial 24 hours of the dramatic resignation of Urjit Patel year. For example, if a bank’s ANBC is 1 lakh as the RBI chief. The Appointments Committee of crore as on March-end 2018, then its PSL target the Cabinet approved Das’ appointment for a three- for FY 2019 will be Rs 40,000 crore. Inclusion of year period. An order was issued by the Department the recapitalization bonds in ANBC would have of Personnel and Training to this effect on Tuesday, increased the base, thereby increasing the PSL

An idea can turn to dust or magic depending on the talent that rubs against it. - William Bernbach Officers’ Voice, January 2019 14 target of PSBs. To ensure continuous flow of credit outstanding agricultural advances touched 23-30 to the priority sector, the PSL compliance of banks is percent across States. Bankers are expecting a monitored by the RBI on a quarterly basis. major announcement in the coming Union Budget on waiver of certain categories of farm loans and In January 2018, the government had issued Special are gearing to face it. Government of India Securities (or recapitalization bonds) aggregating Rs 80,000 crore for subscription Recent waivers by 20 public sector banks (PSBs). The money The recent history of waivers is a case in point. raised by the government via this route was used to These include the Agricultural Debt Waiver and recapitalize these banks. Debt Relief (ADWDR) Scheme announced by the The government’s gazette notification relating to these Centre in 2008 and State specific farm loan waivers bonds (Special Government of India Securities) said announced by Andhara Pradesh and Telangana they will not be considered as an eligible investment in 2014; Tamil Nadu in 2016; and Utter Pradesh, for the purpose of meeting statutory liquidity ratio Maharashtra, Punjab and Karnataka in 2017. (SLR), and can be held under the held-to-maturity As per RBI data, UP’s farm loan waiver was at (HTM) portfolio. Following this notification, banks Rs. 36,000 crore around 2.5 percent of its requested the RBI that these bonds, which have Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), while in a maturity of 10-15 years and carry interest rates Maharashtra it was Rs. 34,000 crore. Punjab ranging from 7.35 percent to 7.68 percent, should be provided Rs. 1500 crore in the 2017-18 State budget excluded from the ANBC for the purpose of arriving for loan waiver, while Karnataka has announced at the PSL target. The RBI has agreed to their a waiver amounting to Rs 8,100 crore of farmers’ request. In its updated Master Direction pertaining cooperative bank loans. The loan-waiver promise to PSL, the RBI said investments made by PSBs in by States which have already gone to polls or are recapitalization bonds floated by the Government of now going to, such as Telangana, range from Rs. India, will not be taken into account for the purpose 40,000 crore to Rs. 90,000 crore. At a time when of calculation of ANBC. inflation and fiscal deficit are major concerns in the backdrop of stress on other segments of banks loans, - The Hindu Business Line, 12/12/2018 loan waivers can only worsen the situation for the Banks face bitter harvest from farm-loan waivers already beleaguered banks. Economists and the RBI have also been critical of such moves. Micro lenders, The increasing demand for farm-loan waivers and another key player in the rural credit ecosystem, farmers holding off loan repayment in anticipation however, are not worried. “Historically, there of write-offs are giving banks sleepless nights. Last has been no data to show that farm-loan waivers week’s mega rally of farmers in the national capital adversely impact MFI advances,” B R Diwakar, has left many bankers quaking. “The expectation of Chief Financial Officer, Credit Access Grameen Ltd, agricultural loan waivers next year when elections said. The repayments rate for NBFC-MFIs is over 99 to the Lok Sabha and some key States are slated percent as per MFIN data. to be held is so high that farmers in many States have gone slow on their repayments, leading to a - The Hindu Business Line, 05/12/2018 ballooning of the bad loan portfolio,” said a senior Govt. decides to up contribution in NPS to 14% official of a leading Public Sector Bank. While overall data for banks are not available yet, individual The Government has decided to enhance its cases of election-bound States with loan write-off contribution for its employees covered under prospects show an increase in agri-NPAs. the National Pension System (NPS) from the existing 10% to 14% of the basic salary, Finance In Telangana, which is going to polls on December 7, Minister, Arun Jaitly said on Monday. However, NPAs went up by Rs 18,194.49 crore in the quarter the minimum employee contribution will continue ended June 2018. Similarly, non-performing assets to remain at 10%. The move would benefit around in agricultural loans had increased by Rs 4795 18 lakh central government employees through crore in the quarter. While NPAs in agri term-loans an increase in the eventual accumulated corpus, crossed 12 percent, bad loans in total agriculture greater pension payouts after retirement without advances stood at 7.00 percent. NPAs in total Officers’ Voice, January 2019 15 any additional burden, and by augmenting old- the integrated businesses of the bank and a core age security in a time of rising life expectancy, the function. It involves cash sorting, management of government said. It added that the impact on the solid currency, collection of money from branches, exchequer was estimated to be around Rs 2,840 and management of the currency chest. In SBI, core for the financial year 2019-20 and will be in the currency management is done in an organized nature of a recurring expenditure. “The financial manner by employees who are recruited in strict implications on account of provisions regarding adherence to legislative mandates. Now, through the payment of compensation for non-deposit or process of outsourcing, the management is trying delayed deposit of NPS contributions during 2004- to induct people not through direct recruitment, 2012 would be in addition to the (said) amount,” a but through agencies, which is not supposed to Government statement said. follow the principles enumerated in the recruitment policy adopted by SBI. RBI guidelines state that the The decision was taken by the Union Cabinet in its meeting bank that chooses to outsource financial services on December 6. The announcement was, however, not should not outsource core management functions. made at that time in view of the polls in Rajasthan the The HR handbook strictly prohibits outsourcing of next day. The new entrants to the central government the currency administration cell due to the fact that service on or after January 1, 2004 are covered under the it would affect internal control, business conduct, National Pension System. Examining certain concerns and reputation of the bank, he said. regarding the NPS, the Seventh Pay Commission had made several recommendations in 2005, including - The Hindu Business Line, 05/12/2018 setting up of a Committee of Secretaries for streamlining Banks put in place new ground rules for the implementation of the pension system. It was later set consortium lending up in 2016. “The committee submitted its report in the year 2018. Accordingly, based on the recommendations, To ensure that large borrowers do not play game draft cabinet note was placed before the cabinet for its with the banking system, banks have stitched approval,” the statement said. together a Standard Operating procedure (SOP) for consortium lending so that there is effective - The Times of India, 11/12/2018 coordination among them during the life cycle of Outsourcing of cash management: Kerala HC a loan-pre-sanction, post-sanction/ disbursement tells SBI to maintain status quo and monitoring. The SOP, put together at the behest of the Finance Ministry, has been necessitated to The Kerala High Court has directed State Bank over-come, among others, herd mentality among of India to maintain status quo on its decision banks in following the loan appraisal by the lead to outsource currency administration and cash bank, information assymmetry among banks, management to third-party service providers in multiple financing against the same security and the Kerala circle. The court direction follows a time lags in reporting defaults/frauds. It is also writ petition challenging the bank management’s aimed at arresting fresh accretion of bad loans. To move to outsource core functions, including that ensure a better turn-around time for loan proposals, of currency chest administration. The petitioners, the SOP, which is part of the public sector banks’ State Bank Staff Union, Kerala Circle, submitted that reforms agenda, also specifies timeline for various the management and Circle Development Officer, stages of the loan. Local Head Office, Thiruvananthapuram, have decided to outsource the functions of the currency Per-sanction stage chest management and cash administration to a At the per-sanction stage, banks want borrowers third party, which is an absolute violation of the to put in request for renewal / enhancement of principles enumerated in the SBI Act, 1955. If the working capital facilities four months (or any other currency chest and its management are outsourced, reasonable period) prior to the due date of renewal. the confidentiality, credibility and security intended The request for credit facility, either for project by virtue of the legislation would undoubtedly be funding and/or working capital, received by the lead defeated, it was pointed out. bank from an existing borrower, has to be sent to all According to M Sasindran, counsel for the petitioner, members of the consortium for their observations/ the process of currency administration is one of queries within a specified time frame (say 7 days) Officers’ Voice, January 2019 16 with directions that they send their feed-back/ or as specified. The lead bank, in consultation with queries within a week. The consolidated queries other lenders, can engage the services of project will be sent to the borrower within a week. After management consultants for monitoring the receiving additional information/ clarification/ implementation and progress of the project. The replies to the queries from the borrower, the initial SOP requires periodical exchange of information consortium meeting, which will firm up project cost among consortium banks on monthly/ quarterly and working capital requirement, will be held by basis. Unsatisfactory features observed by the lead the lead bank. The lead bank/core group of banks bank or any other member bank in the conduct (as decided) will then appraise the proposal. The of account, devolvement of letter of credit/bank appraisal copy will be circulated to all banks for guarantee will be shared among all the banks and information, seeking further observations, if any, discussed. Temporary support extended in the form within 10 days. Following this, members will finalise of additional finance over and above the sanctioned the terms and conditions and also the share to be limits by any of the member banks has to be taken by each member bank if there is an increase apprised to the consortium. Borrowers cannot raise in funding requirement. Each bank has to convey finance outside the consortium without obtaining to the bank/borrower its final sanction within a its prior No Objection Certificate. maximum period of 45 days. - The Hindu Business Line, 05/12/2018

Post-sanction Corporation Bank, Bank of India to resume Upon sanction/renewal/enhancement of limits, lending from FY20 on pick-up in liquidity the lead bank will ensure completion of joint With the Government announcing another round documentation/creation of security/registration of of capital infusion into Public Sector Banks (PSBs) changes/legal audit. It will also ensure compliance last week, Bank of India and Corporation Bank of all stipulated terms and conditions of sanction seem to be the frontrunners among the four-five prior to disbursement and issue confirmation to PSBs to resume normal lending operations outside all consortium member banks. The inspection/ the Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) framework from verification of securities may be done by the lead FY 2020, according to a Kotak Securities report. bank or member banks in rotation, with the report Additional infusion being shared with all members. The lead bank will The Government has sought Parliament’s approval calculate the drawing power based on inspection for an additional round of capital infusion worth Rs. of stocks/ book debts and share the same with 41,000 crore into PSBs for FY 2019. This is in addition all member banks to facilitate working capital to the previously declared capital infusion of Rs. 1.40 disbursement. In the case of project loans, the lead lakh crore. The total remaining amount to be infused bank will monitor the project progress and ensure over the next three months is Rs. 83,000 crore. periodic disbursement by the member banks. “The distribution of capital is not clear, but it does As per the SOP, the (loan) release order/ instructions appear that the Government is keen that all financial will be issued by the lead bank with information institutions are in better shape to restart lending with regarding availment/ release of limits being shared full freedom as a few large ones were constrained by among member banks on a weekly basis or as per being classified under PCA,” said the report. need. All member banks will be sharing statement of account pertaining to the borrower at monthly Poor asset quality intervals. The lead bank will review financial covenants PCA is a structured early intervention and resolution of the brrower in quarterly consortium meeting on mechanism prescribed by regulators for banks the basis of quarterly progress report (submitted by that becomes under-capitalised due to poor asset the borrower). In case of non-compliance of any of quality or vulnerable due to loss of profitability. the benchmark financial covenants, penal interest PCA involves imposition of some restrictions on for the breach will be charged by all banks. Concrete banks such as on dividend distribution/remittance steps initiated by the borrower for curing the breach of profits, branch expansion and management will be discussed and the timeline for compliance of compensation. It could also require promoters/ covenants, will be minutised. owners/parents to bring in more capital and higher Controlling and monitoring of Trust and Retention provisioning requirement. Such actions are aimed Account/Escrow/Central Account operations of the at nursing the banks back to health. company will be in one place, with the lead bank - The Hindu Business Line, 25/12/2018 Officers’ Voice, January 2019 17

ZONAL CONFERENCES - 2018 GOA The Triennial Zonal General Body Meeting of Goa Zone was held at Hotel Nalanda, Panjim, Goa, on 14th October. Proceedings commenced with invocation, rendered by Ms. Reshma Padgaonkar. Zonal Secretary, Siddesh S Desai, welcomed the gathering. The Conference was inaugurated by the Zonal Head and Deputy General Manager, Ms. Annapurna S by lighting the lamp, joined by AIBOC EC Member Sri R. Krishna Kumar, Joint General Secretary, Prasada K B, Deputy General Secretary, Alok Paul, Circle Secretary, Sanjay B Hile, Zonal Chairman Invocation Vijay Shankar and Zonal Secretary, Siddesh S Desai. Zonal Head, Smt. S Annapurna, in her address, expressed pleasure in inaugurating the Triennial Zonal Conference of Goa unit of CBOO and thanked the unit for the pleasant task of giving her an opportunity to address the officers. She highlighted the present issues in our Bank viz., rising NPAs and lack of credit growth. Frauds are happening with the involvement of external persons and these frauds have surfaced in almost all the PSUs. We, as bankers have responded positively in the Welcome Address interest of the nation as true soldiers. Corporate call by our Bank has been always supported by the rank & file. Goa Zone in particular is having good industrial relationship with all employees - working for common goal - with good involvement by the leaders and with their support, she said. AIBOC, EC Member, Sri R Krishnakumar (from Canara Bank), addressing the gathering told about the similarities in Canara Bank & Corporation Bank. Taking a cue from his son who has joined Corporation Bank, he informed that when he Inauguration - Lighting the Lamp asked his son why he joined Corporation Bank, his son replied, “Small is beautiful.” In spite of excellent results of Vijaya Bank, GoI is pushing the performing PSB to the door steps of loss making banks which all employees from banking industry must protest. The action of GoI in calling MDs of various PSBs and pressurising them to select other banks for amalgamation is condemnable. PSB merger is not the solution to the present menace of NPAs; it is totally false. NPA provisioning norms have killed the PSBs for which the Government/s Inaugural Address and RBI Officers’ Voice, January 2019 18 are responsible. Because of merger/amalgamation Address By: of PSBs the individual banks’ culture and public image will be lost forever and we should not allow this to happen. Amalgamation/mergers bring with it more job losses as also promotion losses, he said. Deputy General Secretary, Alok Paul, informed about the necessity of the union and the struggle put in by our earlier leaders to bring benefits to the officers’ community. During the tougher times, the membership must strengthen and support the union. GoI/RBI actions in bailing out the big corporate under the guise of CDR, SDR, etc., have Fraternal Greetings - AIBOC directly impacted the PSBs. In spite of best efforts from the PSBs to recover such NPA amounts through various recovery actions like SARFAESI Act/ attachment of properties and seizure of vehicles, etc. NPA recovery of Corporate defaulters is posing difficulty. He expressed concerns on the increasing disciplinary cases. Govt. supported lending to infrastructure projects and when projects failed, it brought huge NPAs to the PSBs for which GoI itself is responsible, he said. Aadhaar enrolment/ demonetisation has become a huge burden on officers; still, officers have worked in the interest of Deputy General Secretary the nation. Circle Secretary, Sanjay Hile, touched upon the activities conducted under the banner of SWASTI. He informed the house about the importance of contributing to the needy institutions like orphanages, schools, etc. in the society from where we have derived our existence. Briefing the Finacle software issues across the branches, he said that the Central Office had taken a lot of efforts based on feedback received from the field level members to the top management. Joint General Secretary, K B Prasada, in his Circle Secretary address called upon the members of Goa Zone to attend the 21st Triennial General Body Conference at Mangaluru on 27/28th January, 2019 in large numbers in making the event a grand success. To conduct such a big event, cboo requires money and all the members shall collect it through well wishers/patrons through advertisement in the “Special issue of OV”. He requested members to come forward to help the Central Office by taking up disciplinary cases because of increase in charge sheets and disciplinary cases against officers. While wishing the Zonal Triennial General Body Conference all success, he stressed upon the Joint General Secretary Officers’ Voice, January 2019 19 necessity of electing selfless functionaries for Goa Zonal Committee during the business session. Assistant General Secretary, S S Sawant, thanked the membership of the Zone for providing information to the Zonal unit on issues affecting the officers’ fraternity which had helped to build good industrial relations in the Zone. He also thanked the local management for ensuring less hardship to officers in their transfer / postings. Zonal Chairman, Vijay Shankar, in his presidential Assistant General Secretary address called upon the members of Goa unit to participate in all strike actions called by AIBOC/ Felicitations UFBU in the good interest of the officers’ community in the banking industry. He requested them to attend the 21st Triennial Conference at Mangaluru in good number and make it a grand success. Six retired/retiring members during the triennial period January, 2016 to December, 2018 were felicitated with memento, shawl & bouquets, On behalf of felicitated members, Sri Anil S Kenkare, sharing the recent performance of the Bank, thanked the gesture of CBOO in honouring them and wished CBOO all success. Deputy Zonal Secretary, Ganesh Ajgaonkar, proposed vote of thanks. BUSINESS SESSION In the business session, Zonal Secretary, Siddesh Desai, presented his report for the triennial period 2016-2018 and the same was approved by the members present, after deliberations & clarification by the ZS. Thereafter Sri Awadhesh Thakur, ZO-Goa and Sri Abhishek Kumar, Ponda Branch, were appointed as Election Officers for conducting election of office bearers, for the triennial period 2019-22. The Officers’ Voice, January 2019 20

A view of the Audience

following are the office bearers elected : Zonal Chairman : Vijay Shankar, ZO Zonal Secretary : Siddesh S Desai, Zuari Nagar Deputy Zonal : Ganesh G Ajgaonkar, ZO Secretaries Sandeep B Jadhav, Panchwadi Zonal Lady : Preeti Kathel, Vasco-da-Gama Secretary Area Secretaries : Amoncar Sriram Ananda, Bicholim Vote of thanks Shirodker Chanda D, Mapuca PBB Munish Kumar, Rua De Qurem Reshma Padgaonkar, Pilerne Anurag Sharma, Varca Ritesh Kumar Singh, Madel Namita N Naik, Farmagudi Renuka Chhachiya, Maina Curtorim Thereafter during the open session, members raised The New Team certain issues affecting officers which were clarified by the Joint General Secretary. The newly elected Zonal Chairman, Vijay Shankar addressing the members sought co-operation for smooth running of the unit and extend useful feedback to the Zonal Committee for its effective functioning. Newly elected Zonal Secretary, Siddesh S Desai, thanked the members for reposing confidence in him as also the Election Officers for smooth conduct of elections. The session ended with National Anthem. Smt. Preeti Kathel compered the entire programme. Compering

- Siddesh S Desai, Zonal Secretary Officers’ Voice, January 2019 21

HYDERABAD

Zonal Conference of Hyderabad Zone was held on 13th October at Hotel Best Western Ashoka, Lakdikapool, Hyderabad. Inaugural session was held in the morning. Vice President, G Raghuraman, Treasurer, Y Sudhindra and Secretary, Balasubramanian Foundation, A V Ramana Prasad were present along with the Zonal functionaries. Deputy Zonal Head Sri K Nageshwara Rao (AGM) was the Chief Guest. Sri G Subrahmanyam, General Secretary, SBIOA, Telangana and AP delivered keynote address. Invocation Members who retired/retiring during 2016-2018 too were present.

Program started with prayer rendered by Ranjani Pillai, Area Secretary.

K V Ramakrishna, Zonal Chairman initiated the proceedings by welcoming guests and audience.

The Conference was formally inaugurated by Sri K Nageshwar Rao and Sri G Subrahmanyam by lighting the lamp along with other guests.

Deputy Zonal Head, Sri K Nageshwar Rao, while addressing the gathering, informed that Zone is in good position in many parameters due to committed Zonal Chairman Addressing work force. He said Bank is bouncing back from the setbacks due to Finacle implementation and NPA menace. He recalled his association with CBOO and also his regards to Sri T R Bhat and Sri K Koteshwar Rao.

Sri G Subrahmanyam, General Secretary, SBIOA, Telangana and AP touched upon major burning issues affecting the officers’ fraternity like severe shortage of staff, absence of representatives of officers in bank Boards, Aadhaar seeding work, wage revision and pension updation. Explaining the impact of mergers/acquisitions, he informed Welcome Address - Zonal Secretary

Inauguration by Lighting the Lamp Officers’ Voice, January 2019 22 that due to merger of SBI Associates with SBI, nearly 1500 Branches were closed/merged and about 15000 employees took VRS. This mandates that we should oppose merger of BOB, Vijaya and Dena Banks. He was also critical of the Government move to introduce concept of variable pay. He appreciated the work done by CBOO under their Social Action Wing (SWASTI) and Education and Training Wing (Balasubramanian Foundation). “People in the playgrounds will run for shelter when there is a sudden rain and Unions are like shelters and protect members from personal and common problems. Our forefathers sacrificed their career Inaugural Address - Deputy Zonal Head and money to build these shelters. Conducting sports events, women’s meet etc. need special attention by unions to unite all,” he concluded. Vice President, G Raghuraman said that present position of banking industry was due to flawed RBI policies – primarily, CDR, SDR, S4A etc. which enabled to postpone the inevitable and not providing them when Banks were earning good profits; unscientific lending to infrastructure sector added fuel to fire. As the Bank is under PCA, stress is more on Recovery without any lending. He requested members to assess and study each case before pursuing under Halla Bol. He referred the Kerala High Court Judgement in this regard and said many Address by Sri G. Subramanyam - AIBOC a times crocodiles will be let off or escape from the net and small fish will be caught. Talking about Swachhata Abhiyan and beautification of ATMs and premises, he said, instead of wasting valuable resources on these, Bank should concentrate on improving infrastructure like connectivity and stabilizing Finacle. Explaining the importance of Zonal Conferences, he stressed on the need to elect right persons. Retired members who were present were felicitated by guests and mementos were handed over to them. Sri Musunuri Anandam responded on behalf of the Vice President Addressing retirees and shared his association with CBOO and

Felicitations to Retirees Officers’ Voice, January 2019 23 appreciated the good tradition of the Organization, to felicitate retired officers. Session came to end with vote of thanks proposed by B Satyanarayana, Area Secretary. Programme was well compeered by Mrs Ranjani Pillai and Mr Srinivas. In the post- lunch business session, the Zonal Chairman K V Ramakrishna called the meeting to order. G Bhawani, Zonal Secretary placed the Zonal Secretary’s report covering the activities for the last three years and delegates approved the report. Treasurer, Y Sudhindra, in his address, explained about coming Triennial Conference at Mangalore and exhorted all members to register immediately ---> for the event and to participate in large numbers. The Audience

He also stressed on the need for souvenir collection ---> and requested all to contribute.

Secretary, Balasubramanian Foundation, A V Ramana Prasad stressed on the need of UNITY at all times and requested all to be united for the benefit of all. He requested all to actively participate in all union activities and also to contribute in whatever fashion they can.

Later elections were held and new Zonal Committee for the period 2019-22 was setup.

Sri N N P Sankaram and Sri Akkiraju Ananda Vardhan Sarma conducted elections for various posts. Following new team was constituted:

Zonal Chairman : Vijaya Kumar K, Currency Chest

Zonal Secretary : G Bhawani, Zonal Office

Deputy Zonal : P K Ramesh, Banjara Hills Secretaries Palikila Srinivas, Medchal Zonal Lady : P V M Shilpa, Chandanagar Secretary

Area Secretaries : B Pranay Kumar, Nizamabad Manga Gangadhar, Jagitial S A Raja Sekhar, Karimnagar Polam Sreedhar, Neerkula B Rajender Reddy, Narketpalli M Deepa, Tarnaka P Jayachandra, Mehadipatnam Compering G Venkata Siva Prasad, Officers’ Voice, January 2019 24

Service Branch Chinta S Sundara Joshi, Gunrock Enclave Pulipaka Thirupathi, Malkajgiri B Satyanarayana, Nalgonda Parisha Rakesh, Zaheerabad P Satyanarayana, Jadcherla

Newly elected Zonal Secretary and Zonal Chairman, while thanking members for the confidence reposed on them, requested the cooperation of entire membership and assured that they will give their best for the members. Team 2019-22

Programme concluded with National Anthem.

- G Bhawani, Zonal Secretary

VIJAYAWADA

Zonal Conference of Vijayawada Zone was held on 14th October at Hotel Swarna Palace, Vijayawada. Vice President, G Raghuraman, Treasurer, Y Sudhindra and Secretary, Balasubramanian Foundation, A V Ramana Prasad were present along with the Zonal functionaries. Zonal Head and Deputy General Manager, Sri Meenakshi Sundaram was the Chief Guest. Many members who retired during 2016-2018 were also present.

Programme started with prayer rendered by Mr. Subrahmanyam D.

Raghupathi B, Zonal Secretary welcomed the guests, retirees and audience.

Conference was formally inaugurated by Zonal Prayer - Subrahmanyam D. Head, Sri Meenakshi Sundaram by lighting the lamp along with other guests.

Addressing the gathering, Zonal Head, Sri Meenakshi Sundaram acclaimed the activities of CBOO. “Transfer Policy, Promotion Policy and Rental reimbursement Schemes were few examples of achievements of CBOO and new generation is reaping the benefits of these. Keeping in view Bank’s position, many a times CBOO has not pressed for financial benefits. Leaders are elected representatives of members and must know how they should act and react. Bank is on the recovery path. Branches must use OTS as a tool to recover stressed assets. Time Barred Debts are another serious concern in the Zone. Branch Heads shall Welcome - Raghupathi B, Zonal Secretary concentrate on improving CASA, he said. Officers’ Voice, January 2019 25

Triennial Conference Inaugurated Vice President, G Raghuraman explained the present position of banking industry which was due to flawed RBI policies like CDR, SDR, S4A etc. which enabled to postpone the NPAs and by not providing for them when banks were earning good profits. As our Bank is under PCA, stress is only on Recovery without any remarkable lending because of which Balance Sheet has shrunk. Touching upon increased disciplinary cases, he requested members not to share passwords, not to indulge in fake claims in TA bills and to tally and monitor Transient Accounts and other Office Accounts Sri Meenakshi Sundaram, Zonal Head - periodically. He also stressed on the importance Inaugural Address of AOD and impressed upon members to follow up in this regard and ensure that there were no time barred debts. He also briefed on Aadhaar Enrollment, Wage Revision and transfer policy. Explaining practical issues in transfer policy, he requested members to share any innovative ideas in this regard. Retired members, who were present were felicitated by guests; mementos were handed over to them. Sri Rajendra Prasasd, Sri Parameshwara Rao and Sri Sudhakara Rao responded on behalf of the retirees and shared their association with CBOO. Zonal Chairman, MSN Raju informed that Zonal G Raghuraman, Vice President Addressing unit conducted classes for promotion aspirants at Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam and conducted one EC Meeting during the period. Session came to an end with vote of thanks proposed by Mr. Subrahmanyam D who also compeered the programme. In the Business Session that followed, the Zonal Chairman, MSN Raju presided over the proceedings and called the meeting to order. Raghupati B, Zonal Secretary placed the Zonal Secretary’s report covering the activities for the last three years and delegates approved the report after clarification MSN Raju, Zonal Chairman Officers’ Voice, January 2019 26 given by the Zonal Secretary on the observations felicitations made by the members. Treasurer, Y Sudhindra, addressing the delegates explained about the coming Triennial Conference at Mangalore and exhorted all members to register immediately for the event and to participate in large numbers. Praising the Zone for their very good contribution last time in publication of Special Issue of OV (2016), he requested all to surpass the same, this time. Later elections were held and new Zonal Committee for the period 2019-22 was set up. Sri N N P Sankaram and Sri Jakka Venkateshwarlu rendered services as Election Officers. Elections were held for the posts of Zonal Chairman, Zonal Secretary and two Deputy Zonal Secretaries. New team is as hereunder: Zonal Chairman : R Sridhar, Tadepalligudem

Zonal Secretary : MSN Raju, Bhanugudi Jn, Kakinada

Deputy Zonal : P V Kalyan, Arundalpet, Guntur Secretaries Sura Srinu, Narasannapet Zonal Lady : T Sarala Rani, Zonal Office Secretary Area Secretary : K Sudhakar Rao, Narasannapet : K K Raja Sagar M, Gotlam : P V Venkateswara Rao, Seetammadhara : K Sekhar, Dulla : K V Ramana, Ravulapalem : Ganesh Ch, Nattarameshwaram : G Kamal Hasan, Zonal Office : M Venkateshwarlu, Tenali : Pavan Kumar Mondal, Zonal Office Newly elected Zonal Secretary and Zonal Chairman thanked the members for electing them and requested the cooperation of entire membership in discharging their duties as office-bearers effectively. Sri Jakka Venkateshwarlu (former Treasurer) and Sri N N P Sankaram (former AGS) addressed the delegates and recalled their association with the Zone and CBOO and requested all officers to be united and strengthen the hands of leaders. Programme concluded with National Anthem. - B Raghupathi, Zonal Secretary A view of the Gathering Officers’ Voice, January 2019 27

DELHI

The inaugural session of Joint Triennial Zonal Conference of Delhi Zonal Units was held on 13th October. The Conference was inaugurated with the lighting of the lamp by Sri D V S Verma, Circle General Manager, Delhi. In his inaugural address, he proudly declared, ‘I am still member of CBOO’. He detailed on all business development activities like CANGAROO, CASA growth and Corp Schemes etc. He praised the officers for their contribution in business development including NPA/PNPA management which might lead to bring the Bank Prayer - M S Kanwal Preet Sarota out from PCA in the shortest possible time. He called upon the officers to protect the Bank from fraudsters. He categorically advised the officers not to work on holidays and advised them to spend the quality time with their families.

Satish Shetty, General Secretary was critical of present policies of the Management in retail lending and hurdle created through ‘in principle’ sanctions. He touched upon various aspects of present banking scenario in the country and narrated in detail how the governments and RBI have pushed the Public Sector Banks to the present position through their wrong policies on lending, restructure schemes and Welcome - Arvind Arora, ZS AQR etc. He explained the role played by CBOO in Finacle migration. He called upon the membership to desist from undertaking Aadhaar enrolment work due to acute shortage of manpower in the Branches. Bank's business has affected basically due to insufficient staff, he concluded.

Anil Pahwa, Vice President expressed that the attendance was not commensurate with the membership of CBOO in Delhi. He called upon the membership to participate in all organisational Inauguration activities. He also advised the members to dedicate to the cause of the Bank, to work with discipline and contribute to the Bank as well as to the Organisation. He thanked the elders who have built such a strong Organisation.

Satish Kumar, Secretary SWASTI called upon the members to identify projects for SWASTI. "Identifying SWASTI project shall not be treated as a duty of Zonal Secretary only. Such projects will give mileage to the Bank as well. Analyse Halla Bol; at several places, it is being done only for photos to be published and not as a real recovery tool". He also questioned the inadequate planning by the Sri DVS Verma, CGM - Inaugural Address Officers’ Voice, January 2019 28

Address by GS, Satish Shetty Vote of Thanks-Manjeet Singh, ZS Mukesh Gupta, ZC compering

Felicitations to Retirees

Audience - They Made it a Success Officers’ Voice, January 2019 29

Bank in Finacle migration and difficulties faced by the branches due to such unplanned action. The program commenced with prayer rendered by Ms. Kanwal Preet Sarota. Mukesh Gupta, Zonal Chairman compered the programme in his own characteristic way. In the beginning, Zonal Secretary-Delhi (North), Arvind Arora welcomed the gathering. Around 25 retirees were felicitated during the programme. Manjeet Singh, Zonal Secretary-Delhi (South) proposed vote of thanks.

Following members were elected to the newly constituted Zonal Committee:

POST DELHI - SOUTH DELHI - NORTH

Zonal Chairman Vivek Bharti, Daruhera Mukesh Gupta, Mayur Vihar Zonal Secretary Ashutosh Kumar, Ballabgarh Deepak Kumar, Bhera Enclave Deputy Zonal Secretaries Adarsh Kumar, Jaitpur Shubhrendra Kumar, Service Branch Ranjan Kumar, Dariyapur Sarvashreshtha, Vivek Vihar Zonal Lady Secretary Nivedita Upreti, Hauz Khas Swati Panchal, Ashok Vihar Area Secretaries Sandeep Kumar, Najafgarh Manish Kumar Sharma, Preet Vihar Nitin Kumar, Kaira Rohit Ratna, Ramprastha Akash Khare, GK II Alankar, Vasundhara Enclave Monika, Chhatarpur Ajay Tomar, Ghaziabad Dheeraj Parashar, Gurgaon Neelam Bhandary, Pitampura Mukesh Arora, Jamalpur Santosh, Azadpur Shelly Sehra, Faridabad, Sector 28 Manjit Sinha, NOIDA – 53 Amit Kumar, Zonal Office Pankaj, CAPS Abhishek Kumar, New Friends Tushar Mishra, Zonal Office Colony Ravinder Kumar, Nangloi Ravi Kumar, Karolbag

- Arvind Arora (N) & Manjeet Singh (S), Zonal Secretaries

JAIPUR

The inaugural session of Zonal Conference of Jaipur Zone was held on 14th October at Jaipur. Sri Mohandas, Deputy General Manager and Zonal Head inaugurated the Conference by lighting the lamp along with other dignitaries. In his inaugural address he claimed that the Zone is full of youngsters, with zeal and energy. The topography of the Zone is very vast and business is not coming as expected, despite very good scope. He advised the officers to maintain good housekeeping and avoid lapses on account of non- obtention of AODs and pending/incomplete documentation etc. He recollected his association with many past leaders of CBOO and told that he is emotionally too attached to CBOO and its leadership.

Satish Shetty, General Secretary dwelt on the manpower shortage in the Bank and its impact on the business. He called upon the membership to Inauguration by Lighting the Lamp desist from undertaking Aadhar enrolment work. Officers’ Voice, January 2019 30

He explained the short comings of ‘in principle’ sanctions and policies of the management in Retail Lending and hurdles created through it. He touched upon various aspects of present banking scenario in the country and narrated in detail how the Government and RBI have pushed the Public Sector Banks to the present position through their wrong policies on lending, restructure schemes and AQR etc. Anil Pahwa, Vice President, in his speech, called upon the members to extend full co-operation to the Zonal Head who is responsive to the staff and very caring. He told that due to merger issue we have forgotten wage revision. He explained the role of AIBOC in stalling FRDI bill and called Address by GS, Satish Shetty upon the members to participate in all agitational programmes without having any doubt about the capacity of trade unions. He warned the management that people may forget lending if in- principle sanction is continued. We must groom the young and give them confidence to take decisions. He also lamented that Finacle and Internet Banking has made us to suffer. Rajesh Gowtham, Zonal Chairman, explained the difficulties in the branches due to manpower shortage. Mounting NPA is troubling the PSBs and the Government shall come to its rescue. Quality service is not possible in PSBs due to work pressure, he said. In the beginning Zonal Secretary, Rakesh Kumar Meena welcomed the gathering. Somant Tak, Deputy Zonal Secretary proposed vote of thanks. The program was compered by Sri Santosh Meena. In the business session later, the following new team was constituted, after elections, to lead the unit for the next Triennial: Zonal Chairman : Somant Tak, Sri Ganganagar Zonal Secretary : Rakesh Kumar Meena, Currency Chest Deputy Zonal : Pawan Chotia, Mahesh Nagar Secretaries Manoj Raigar, Rampura Dabri Zonal Lady : Gitanjali Sharma, Talwada Secretary

Area Secretaries : Rajeev Saxena, Delegates in session Vidyadhar Nagar Sunil Kumar, Marketing Sales Unit, ZO Officers’ Voice, January 2019 31

Punit Chabra, Chandwaji Vijay Kumar Kataria, Natawali Prithvi Singh, Nagaur Jiyalal Meena, Randheerghar Ram Bharadwaj, Kota Vinod Kumar Gothwal, Bhiwadi Maqsud Ahemad, Niwai Praveen Kumar Verma, Ajmer Surendra Kumar Saini, Pratapgarh Lokesh Kumar Meena, Bhilwara K C Meena, Jhunjhunu Pawan Parihar, Jodhpur Ritul Bhati, Jhalore The Newly Elected Team

- Rakesh Kumar Meena, Zonal Secretary

NELLORE

The Triennial Zonal General Body Meeting of Nellore Zone was held at Bhavani Guest Inn, Adithyanagara, Nellore, on 28th October.

Joint General Secretaries, Prasada K B & B Sridhar, Circle Secretary, P Rangarajan, Zonal Secretary, Ashok D Chakravarthi, were present. Zonal Head and Deputy General Manager, Sri Y Lakshmi Narayana was the Chief Guest. Assistant General Manager and Deputy Zonal Head, Sri Prabhu C, Welcome Address Regional Secretary, SBIOA, Nellore Unit, Sri A Nagendra Rao were also present.

Zonal Secretary, D Ashok Chakravarthi, welcomed the gathering. He gave a brief on the activities of the Nellore Zonal unit.

The programme was inaugurated by the Zonal Head through lighting the lamp along with other dignitaries on the dais. Zonal Head, Sri Y Lakshmi Narayana, said that Union means to be united. “I too am a member; but a silent soldier. I am happy Inauguration Officers’ Voice, January 2019 32 that members from far off places have attended the program and I am fortunate enough to address them. Union is part and parcel of our career and one must become member of it. Union is a bridge for negotiation between management and employees. Single/two fingers can’t fight; but a fist can. Banking industry is facing serious difficulties and so also both managements and unions. Members should support union. Reciprocation by members by way of attending programmes of this type is important because leadership feels that its members are together in supporting them. Go through ‘Circular Inaugural Address - DGM & ZH Round Up’ and ‘Health Watch’ which are very informative columns of OV. You shall desist from committing mistakes while lending. Support each other to help the Bank,” he said. He thanked the unit for providing him an opportunity to inaugurate & address the members.

Regional Secretary, SBIOA, Nellore Unit, Sri A Nagendra Rao, briefed on the present scenario in the banking industry and more so in SBI. “In SBI also we are working on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays because of pressure to perform from management. Merger of Associate Banks of SBI with Fraternal Greetings by AIBOC it has brought more miseries than comforts as it was thought before merger. Voluntary Retirements & transfer of officers in the name of non- performance are on rise. Whatsapp messages from management to field level officers have disturbed the IR situation in the bank. The GoI, after its decision on forceful merger of Associate Banks with SBI, is least bothered to redress the present burning issues affecting the bank. The reason for GoI’s appointing 8 Deputy MDs of SBI for the top posts of PSBs is to ensure smooth merger elsewhere as they have already tasted and tested in SBI,” he explained. He JGS, B. Sridhar called upon every citizen of the country to oppose the merger move of the GoI.

Joint General Secretary, B Sridhar, congratulated the members for gathering in large numbers for the Conference. Quoting the DGM that our Bank will be the first to come out of PCA, he demanded restoration of suspended Staff Welfare measures. “OV must be opened first and read by all members once they receive it. Helping in transfers to members is not the only function of CBOO and members must attend the meetings whenever it is called by the local units as also Central Office. Saturday as holiday for banks has posed difficulties for the bank JGS, K.B. Prasada unions as members’ availability for any trade union Officers’ Voice, January 2019 33 activity has come down. Let us wait and watch on the developments in amalgamation of BoB, Dena & Vijaya Bank. AIBOC has filed a Writ Petition in Delhi High Court on the issue,” he said.

Joint General Secretary, Prasada K B, briefed about the issues taken up by CBOO with the top management on problems faced in Finacle and internet banking, affecting the customers and officers at the branches. CBOO has created a web site link ‘finaclelsuggestions.co.in’ under cboo.org. He requested the members to mail their suggestions CS, P. Rangarajan for taking up with the management periodically. He called upon the members to oppose the work of Aadhaar enrolment forced on officers by the management, in line with the decision of AIBOC. He was concerned about the increasing number of disciplinary cases in our Bank and requested the members to come forward to assist the charge sheeted officers in their Zone. Quoting certain disciplinary cases, he cautioned them to be careful in discharge of their duties. He also called upon the members to attend the 21st Triennial General Body Conference at Mangaluru on 27/28th January, 2019 in large numbers and make the event a grand Vote of Thanks - Sri J. Prabhakar success.

Felicitations Officers’ Voice, January 2019 34

Circle Secretary, P Rangarajan expressed happiness about the unit’s relationship with the local management. He touched upon the fraud prone areas in the Bank and the precautionary measures that are most necessary while dealing in day to day business at the branches. In some branches there is a huge number of blank loan documents even after disbursement of loans. This trend on the part of branch heads/officers must be stopped forthwith. Second line officers must be more vigilant in such cases and bring it to the knowledge of CBOO local functionaries to take up the matter with the appropriate authorities so that early warning signals can be given to such branches, he said. The Audience 7 members who retired/retiring during the triennial period were felicitated by Central Office observers and others on dais. They shared their past/recent experiences vis-a-vis performance of the Bank and thanked the gesture of CBOO.

Sri J Prabhakar, Activist proposed vote of thanks.

In the business session, Zonal Secretary, D Ashok Chakravarthi, presented his report for the triennial period 2016-2018 and the same was approved by the members present.

Thereafter, Sri J Prabhakar and Smt. D Shakeela, were appointed as Election Officers for conducting election of office bearers for the triennial period 2019-22. The following were elected:

Zonal Chairman : T Ramesh Babu, Kurnool Y Surendranatha Reddy, Chittoor Zonal Secretary : D Ashok Chakravarthi, Naveen K, Somala Damaramadagu D Parthasarathi, Nellore-Stone House Pet Deputy Zonal : M Srinivasulu Reddy, Nellore Secretaries Magunta Layout V Venkata Deekshit, Muthukur K Sundeep, Chillakur P Brahmananda Rao, Zonal Lady : Keerthana N, Zonal Office Singarayakonda Secretary Surendra Babu A, Chimakurthy

Area Secretaries : A Tarun Rao, Guntakal The newly elected Zonal Chairman, T Ramesh Babu B Edwin Satish, Narpala and Zonal Secretary, D Ashok Chakravarthi, thanked the members for reposing confidence A Anil Kumar, Yemmiganur and assured them that the team would work in R Srinivasulu, Adoni co-ordination, for the good of the members. Venkata Ramesh R, Cuddapah- Currency Chest The session ended with National Anthem. Suresh Kumar Chitla, Rayachoti - D Ashok Chakravarthi, Zonal Secretary Officers’ Voice, January 2019 35

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM

Zonal Conference of Thiruvananthapuram Zone was held at Hotel Sea Palace, Kollam on 14th October.

The day’s proceedings commenced with invocation by Ms. Sharima S. Welcoming the guests and the audience, K D Baburajan, Zonal Secretary, gave a brief on the programme as well as the activities of the Zonal unit.

Deputy General Manager and Zonal Head Mr. K Laxman Kudva, inaugurated the Triennial Conference by lighting the lamp along with Com. Janardhanan, District President, AIBOC, Kollam District.

Mr. K Laxman Kudva, Zonal Head, dwelt on the banking scenario in the country and about our Bank in particular, the PCA concept and our Bank’s position, the restrictions on lending and curtailing of delegated lending powers etc. ‘The area of sanctioning credit is a very challenging one. We need to focus on quality loans, Retail, SME and Agricultural loans. Stretch a bit and contribute to Sri K Laxman Kudva, ZH, Lighting the Lamp ensure that the Bank would regain its lost glory, he said.

Com. Janardhanan, District President, AIBOC, complimented the CBOO units in Kerala for active participation in all the trade union activities of AIBOC. He requested the members to be in readiness to protest against the move of the Govt. to merge/amalgamate the PSBs.

L Sobha, Secretary, Women’s Wing, explained the repercussions of merger of PSBs as it happened in the case of SBI and Associate Banks. She also cautioned the members against the acts of avoiding Inaugural Address classification of accounts as NPA by ‘Debit and Credit’ in running a/cs. Instructions received are oral or telephonic whereas the IDs of maker and verifier are traceable – hence punishable. She also highlighted the problem of staff shortage and Finacle issues.

K S Karthick, Deputy General Secretary, discussed about the PCA, NPA of Corporate a/cs and discrimination between private sector and PSBs etc. He reiterated the importance of obtaining AODs on priority basis. He was critical of the inordinate delay in transfer process and withdrawal of Staff Welfare Schemes etc. He requested the members DGS, K S Karthick Addressing Officers’ Voice, January 2019 36 to attend the Triennial Conference at Mangalore in large number and to speed up the souvenir collection for the Special Issue of OV.

P Rangarajan, Circle Secretary, reiterated the importance of updating oneself about the Circulars issued by the Bank as well as CBOO. He also requested the members to have a better work- life balance and urged the members not to attend official phone calls from 8 PM to 8 AM, as per the call given by AIBOC.

S Prakash Rao, Secretary, Benevolent Fund, A view of the Audience in his address, stressed about the importance : Jobi Thomas, Kanjirapally of following the systems and procedures while : Suresh Babu G, sanctioning the loans and not to deviate from the Pattanamthitta procedures, in the wake of increasing number of disciplinary cases. - K D Baburajan, Zonal Secretary

Retired members were felicitated. In response, Mr. T C Joseph and Mr. Govinda Pillai recollected their association with CBOO and urged CBOO that retirees’ interests be taken care of in wage settlement.

Zonal Chairman, Charles K Thomas thanked all the members who responded to the request of the Kerala unit of CBOO to contribute to the Flood Relief Fund. He also congratulated the members for their presence in large number.

In the business session that followed, new team for the next Triennial was formed as herebelow:

Zonal Chairman : Charles K Thomas, Kottayam Zonal Secretary : K D Baburajan, Pattanamthitta Deputy Zonal : K P Dinesh Babu, Chengannur Ekanath Baliga had continued the great work Secretary done by his predecessors in the Organisation and Zonal Lady : Nimmi Peter, Palai he had ensured that the core values on which Secretary CBOO has been built were pursued relentlessly. His leadership qualities were marked by his Area Secretaries : Sonaj B S, Neyyattinkara unflinching determination, absolute sincerity, : Jayan M A, Vellayambalam unselfishness of purpose and moral power. His : Aswani S Kumar, Attingal retirement brings to an end the long relationship : Sharima S, CCPC he had with the Organisation, particularly as : Sujatha Samuel, Kallambalam one of its top leaders. : Sooraj B, Alamkadavu I wish him all the best in the days to come. : Sreeraj S, Ummanoor H S Vishwanath : Soumya S R, Chennapetta : Kannan A G, Kuttivattom (Sri H S Vishwanath, since retired, was Secretary, Balasubramanian Foundation and has been : K Boban, Chettikkad regularly subscribing cartoons – the last page : Preetha Chandran, Pathiyoor magnet of the Officers’ Voice - ‘In Lighter Vein.’) : Aneesh M, Thodupuzha Officers’ Voice, January 2019 37

should it need extra dollars. A swap arrangement Class room with Japan provides considerable comfort to India, because Japan is the second largest holder of dollar Indo Japan Currency Swap reserves in the world after China and is sitting on fat coffers of over $1,250 billion. Therefore, while During his recent visit to Japan, Prime Minister, Japan is quite unlikely to ask India for a dollar Narendra Modi, apart from discussing bullet trains loan, India can make use of such a loan at rock- and yen loans with his Japanese counterpart, bottom interest rates. also inked a deal for a bilateral currency swap arrangement. While India has such arrangements But what’s in it for Japan? Well, Japan may see this with many Asian nations, this is among the largest deal as quid pro quo for lucrative investment deals of such deals, valued at $75 billion. The Government that help Japanese companies set up shop in India. hopes that this deal will act as a buffer to shore up China and Japan also use bilateral currency swaps the Rupee which has depreciated by 14 per cent as instruments to fight the hegemony of the dollar, against the dollar this year. and coaxes more countries to use their currency to settle their bills. What Is It? Why Should I Care? A bilateral currency swap is an open-ended credit line from one country to another at a fixed exchange Think of how convenient it would be if you had a rate. The country which avails itself of this loan, rich uncle who told you – “I really like you, beta. pays interest to the country which provides it, at a Anytime you need Rs. 75 lakh, just ask me and I’ll benchmark interest rate such as the Libor (London give you a loan at an ultra-low interest rate.” Even if Inter-bank Rate). This currency swap arrangement your finances were on the brink, you would probably will allow the Indian central bank to draw up to sleep easy knowing that you have this lifeline. Your $75 billion worth of yen or dollars as a loan from own credit-worthiness with others would go up a the Japanese Government whenever it needs this few notches after this deal because everyone knows money. The RBI can either sell these dollars (or you have this Rs. 75 lakh on tap. Currency swaps yen) to importers to settle their bills or to borrowers between countries work much the same way, except to pay-off their foreign loans. The RBI can even that in a bilateral arrangement, both countries are hang on to the money to shore up its own foreign expected to play rich uncle to each other. So will deal exchange reserves and defend the Rupee. Should immediately boost the Rupee? It may not, because the Japanese central bank knock on India’s doors it remains only on paper until India actually asks for a $75-billion loan, the RBI too is obliged to Japan for the loan. But it does boost the confidence provide it at Libor, out of its own reserves. of importers and investors dealing in the Rupee, as they know that there’s a rich uncle waiting in the Why is it important? wings.

In recent times, the Rupee has been falling against -The Hindu Business Line, 06/11/2018 the dollar because of its widening Current Account Deficit (the difference between imports and exports SALE OF ENEMY SHARES of goods and services). This leads to importers upping their demand for dollars far beyond what The Cabinet recently approved the sale of ‘enemy exporters bring into the country. RBI had amassed shares’ that are in the custody of the Ministry of foreign currency reserves of over $426 billion by Home Affairs or the Custodian of Enemy Property April 2018; it has had to use up some of this in recent of India. This is expected to shore up Government weeks to prop up the Rupee. Though present forex revenues by about Rs. 3,000 crore. So, who are reserves at over $390 billion are still comfortable, these enemies and why have they left us Indians having a $75-billion loan-on-demand from Japan this haul of shares? gives the RBI an additional buffer to fall back on,

Opportunity is something very difficult to recognize; it usually comes disguised as hard work. Officers’ Voice, January 2019 38

What is it? ‘A’ transferred his property to his son in 1963 and migrated to Pakistan during the war in 1965. After As per The Enemy property Act, 1968, ‘enemy the amendment to the Act, the property transferred property’ refers to any property that was belonging by A before migrating, now owned by his son, also to a person who migrated from India to an enemy falls under the definition of ‘enemy property’ and country when a war broke out. During World War can be confiscated. II, the US and the UK took over the properties of people who fled their shores to settle in ‘enemy’ Why should I care? countries such as Germany and Japan. This was If you are among those legal heirs who nursed hopes touted as a move to protect their turf from hostile of enjoying ownership rights over shares left by your forces in enemy state who might take control of forefathers who fled to ‘enemy’ states, it’s the time such assets and use it to their advantage. Similarly, to swallow the bitter pill, as your shares will now be in India too, after the war with China and Pakistan sold and proceeds added to the disinvestment kitty in 1962 and 1965, the Government took over the of the Government. If you are someone who tracks properties, under the Defence of India Act, from the economy closely and have been worried about persons who migrated to these countries. The the Centre’s fiscal deficit overshooting targets, you confiscated property included both movable and can feel better that all possible options are being immovable properties, securities, jewellery, land explored to address this. But keep in mind that the and buildings. expected sale proceeds of Rs. 3,000 core amount Later in1968, a law called The Enemy Property to a few drops of water in the mighty ocean of the Act was enacted to regulate such properties and fiscal deficit. entrusted with the Custodian of Enemy Property. - The Hindu Business Line, 13/11/2018 Now, for the first time, the Government has decided to sell off the property held in the form of shares (‘enemy shares’) which are lying with the custodian. GREETINGS st It expects to use the proceeds from sale for Dawn of January, 1 will mark a new year ahead. We development and social welfare programmes. With marched through the tumultuous 2018 – the PAC the Cabinet rubber-stamping this sale of shares, impact, the CBS problems, Internet snags and a few the disposal of other properties such as land and more. But the dusk of 2018 was cheerful with the building could also be in the offing. hopes of earliest exit from PCA, with two quarterly profits, likely to be followed by the last quarter of the Why is it important? calendar year too. Month of December also marked the conclusion of Triennial Zonal General Body Meetings In a year where the Government is leaving no of our Organsiation. stone unturned to unearth new ways to balance its Budget, these enemy shares have come in handy. 2019 marks significance for CBOO. We are moving to The property now approved for sale consists of the Triennial Fest in the first month of 2019. Delegates from all over the country are expected to part take in about 6.5 crore shares which are under the custody the event. A new team will be formed to steer CBOO of CEPI belonging to 20,323 shareholders in 996 during the next three years. Like the change in CBOO companies. Of these, 588 companies are currently at the helm, the Bank too will witness a leadership functional and 139 are listed on stock exchanges. change shortly which the queer eyes in the Bank are Selling these shares will lead to monetization of peeping into. assets that have been lying dormant for decades. CBOO wishes all its members a happy and prosperous In twist to this decision, last year, the Government year ahead. Let’s determine to perform well in the year also made amendments to The Enemy property ahead, bring laurels to the Bank and fame to CBOO. Act, 1968 to include even the property lawfully transferred by the ‘enemy’ (the fleeing citizen) to his/her legal heir or successor before migrating [SATISH SHETTY] to Pakistan or China. To illustrate, say a person GENERAL SECRETARY

Man becomes great exactly in the degree in which he works for the welfare of his fellowmen. - Mahatma Gandhi Officers’ Voice, January 2019 39

IV & above. Is this subscription money thrown by letters to the Editor executives to organization is the tempting factor which makes CBOO leadership to keep their mouth shut? Will the same lenience would be given to Dear Mr. Shetty, Scale-I to III members when they refuse to abide by 1. I am a member of CBOO since 1984 and I the call of the union? have participated in all strike calls issued by our 3.6. Please realize that the above actions are being Organisation from time to time without exception. watched by members. Why do you want to carry I have not sought any personal favours from CBOO a person on your shoulder who is ungrateful to till date such as seeking transfer or modification CBOO? Why does CBOO leadership make Scale-I transfer or any other issue including assistance to to III to go on strike and lose wages for the benefit disciplinary proceedings. of these executives? Why leadership should extend 2. Notwithstanding the above, I would request you helping hand to them at times of crisis? to examine the following issues, as they hurt my 4. FELICITATING EXECUTIVES ON RETIREMENT sentiments. 4.1. The most irritating issue is that recently, 3. NON-PARTICIPATION OF STRIKES BY Mangalore local leadership went to the extent of EXECUTIVES honouring some of these executives at a function 3.1. It is observed from CBOO’s Circular No. 32/2018 arranged at CBOO Centre by garlanding them, dated 11.12.2018 that the reason for 21.12.2018 offering shawl to each one of them and presenting Strike is to secure unconditional mandate for wage wrist watches. revisions from Scale-I to Scale-VII. 4.2. Please remember that expenses incurred for 3.2. Our past experiences reveal that a miniscule this function is from out of the subscriptions paid percent of officers in Scale-IV & above alone by the disciplined members of the Organization. recognize CBOO’s call and participate in strike. When enquired with officer bearers, it was revealed Major chunk of remaining executives do not care that this great decision was taken by EC. Above for CBOO & continue to display least respect for decision of CBOO EC & action of local leadership leaders’ repeated plea on participation in strikes. are highly humiliating me. Many of them placed at Zonal & Circle levels have, 4.3. For a moment, just recollect who these on a number of occasions, sabotaged our strikes by executives are. They are the same persons who threatening members. All these activities are best did not care for your repeated plea to join our known to CBOO leadership and need no elaboration. organizational activities, including strikes, created 3.3. This privileged class of membership is aware trouble to our members through their high handed that union leaders would instantly come to their approach, as if they are the management ‘born rescue, whenever necessity arises. It is because, to protect’ the institution. Some of them have union promptly receives their monthly subscriptions submitted written requests refusing to pay levy and allows their non-participation in strikes as an to CBOO. These members were also honoured by acceptable custom of CBOO. CBOO by presenting shawl, watches etc. 3.4. As regards 21.12.2018 strike, CBOO is forcing 4.4. If the EC of CBOO directed the local leadership members of Scale-I to Scale-III to participate in strike to organize such a function, why no resistance thereby make them to lose their wages, especially was displayed by local leadership? Except paying when strike call is for the benefit of executives who subscription, no contribution comes to CBOO from would come to office on 21st - strike day. these executives. 3.5. It is not fair to go on such a strike for the sake 4.5. On seeing the casual attitude of CBOO in of executives who refuse to join us. Union leaders taking the Scale I to Scale III officers for granted, I are fully aware of this behavior of members in Scale- had initially decided to boycott the 21.12.2018

The first great gift we can bestow on others is a good example. - Thomas Morell Officers’ Voice, January 2019 40 strike call and attend office so as to register my is dreaded by them which is illogical. A protest. Having realised that we should not show loss of promotion in the ordinary course is our differences in public that would become an compromised mentally, waiting hopefully for opportunity for other unions to criticize CBOO, I the next process. Any such miss after a Strike participated in 21.2.2018 strike and thereafter am seeks martyrdom and an immediate complaint sending this communication to you. to union leaders as victimization. 4.6. I would request you to kindly stop organizing b. The so called ‘PROTECTION’ for participation such functions for felicitating executives who have in Strike is a figment of fiction which even the been ungrateful to the cause of CBOO, at least in Scale I, II, III do not have. future. I trust that good sense will prevail upon the c. The mutual discussions and subsequent leadership of CBOO in re-examining this decision back-tracking on the eve and the day of Strike in the interest of Scale-I to III members and a right is a major challenge to all of us. Even willing decision would be taken in this regard. officers in Scale IV & V reverse their decisions 4.7. Also please publish in your next circular, total after negative replies from others in the same strength of executives, scale-wise, of which number ranks. of persons participated in 21.12.2018 strike so that d. Management coercing a few executives from members would also come to know of the facts. participating in Strike preemptively, a few This could be the acid test for CBOO to decide others to report presence in office though whether we should continue them who refuse to they did actually participate in Strike – just abide by organizational calls - just because they to reduce the number of participation in the pay subscriptions and use CBOO as an insurance reports have also become hurdle in actual company for mitigating their organizational risks. participation. May be, this could be one of the reasons for our inability to effectively bargain our demands in time. However, as an Organisation, our endeavour for the last more than two decades has been to carry 4.8. I solicit your early response on the action this section of officers along with us, though with initiated in the matter. very little success. The major threat has been that -A Member from HO a chunk of officers in Scale IV & V feel that they have passed the threshold of ‘Strike Participation’ (Central Office Reply) after becoming Scale IV which is illogical. But the Dear Sri ………, light at the end of the tunnel has been the 21st We acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated December Strike in which nearly 5% of this section 22/12/2018. While we appreciate your anguish participated in Strike. This should continue and as also your comreidery, it is truly the strength, with more and more courageous expressions of spirit and support of members like you which their willingness and participation, the jinx will be strengthens CBOO. We will like to respond to a few broken. of your observations: 2. Object of Strike on 21st December: 1. Participation in Strike: It is true that AIBOC called for Strike on 21st It is a known fact that the officers in Scale IV and December on the issue of full mandate. Fractured above have not been participating in agitational mandate will affect the prospects of Scale IV activities, including Strikes. We have been exhorting & above. But as a union, if AIBOC neglects this to this category of officers that their ‘Strike Phobia’ issue, Scale I, II, III too are going to be affected is unfounded and must be shed down. in future. Today’s fractured mandate may repeat for lower Scales in future too thus totally breaking a. A general transfer in the ordinary course to the presence of all Scales in the union. If divided, any distant is accepted by them and they go Performance Linked Pay will be first targeted at and join there. A likely transfer after Strike this category of IV and above; officers will be the

Think right, act right; it is what you think and do that makes you what you are. Officers’ Voice, January 2019 41 next and award staff too may not be able to escape article this onslaught in the years to come. Moreover, the present Scale II & III are going to be Public Sector Bank Strikes: Is future Scale IV & V. The requirement of full mandate the Industry Moving Towards is in the interest of the entire officers’ community. Unilateralism? - T.R. Bhat 3. Felicitation upon retirement: The banking industry has yet to recover from The Executive Committee, in its wisdom had its crisis of stressed assets – and it faces a new decided to felicitate all members upon retirement. situation, of a spate of strikes by bank unions. It is not proper to question such decisions of our The first strike took place on December 21, and predecessors. There are very devoted members in the next is scheduled for December 26. Both crises all Scales including Scale IV and above. Similarly, demonstrate that bank managements do not learn errants too are there in all Scales. To quote, there from the past. The principal issue for the first strike are a few members in Scale I, II and III too who: was the refusal of bank managements, led by the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA), to include the a. Proceed on leave during Strike dates to avoid entire officers’ class in the ambit of bipartite wage Strike participation. negotiations – on the grounds that five out of 20 Public Sector Banks (PSBs) had given a conditional b. Attend duty on the pretext that they are due mandate. Bank officers raised these issues in their to retire within 10 months, thus affecting their notice of the first strike. The strike on December pension and other terminal benefits (We have 26 has been called on the issue of the proposed been shouting from the roof tops frequently that merger of Dena Bank, Vijaya Bank and Bank of participation in Strike does not affect Pension, Baroda. There are larger issues yet: Restoring the Commutation, Gratuity and Leave Encashment health of the PSBs, reforming the human resources – but this class exhibits divine deafness to our environment and better social security for both explanations). serving and retired staff. The bipartite relationship in the banking sector c. Abstain from participation in Strike under the pretext of being a specific specialization, deemed At present, there are two parallel but inter-connected to be (though not actually) the extended arms of systems: one for non-supervisory staff (clerical and the management. subordinate staff), collectively called ‘workmen’ and the other for supervisory staff or ‘officers.’ Until the d. Strive to get themselves enlisted during the ’60s, the wages of workmen were fixed by centrally- Strike days as manning critical installations. appointed tribunals. The appointment of tribunals was invariably preceded by serious unrest, which e. Have not paid levy repeatedly. destabilised the industry frequently. In 1966, this practice was replaced when workmen unions and - And the like. the IBA signed the binding I Bipartite Settlement While devotion to the collective movement is not (BPS). Since then, wages of workmen have been Scale specific, indiscipline too is not (except the periodically revised through successive BPSs. The extent and nature of it). As an Organisation, CBOO tenth and most recent BPS was signed in May, 2015, with validity till October 31, 2017. has always strived to take all Corp Bankers with us. While we respect your sentiments, we also appreciate Pay scales for officers were standardised with effect you for having whole-heartedly participating in the from 1979/1983, as per the V.R. Pillai Committee Strike/s and other CBOO activities. Your feedback Recommendations (PCR). Since 1985, the IBA – is appreciated. holding a mandate from the Government of India, the owner of the PSBs – and federations of bank With Greetings, officers’ associations (BOAs), have evolved a process Sd/- of negotiating officers’ service conditions. Together [SATISH SHETTY] they would arrive at an understanding, termed GENERAL SECRETARY bipartite Joint Notes (JN). The last JN was arrived at in May, 2015, also with validity till October 31, Officers’ Voice, January 2019 42

2017. These agreements covered all officers from Besides, the pay packages are anchored on the the entry level up to those in the top executive principle of internal relativity between various scales. cadre. PSBs have seven levels of hierarchy, all of Internal relativity is nullified when officers in some them are governed by common regulations, known scales have a different concept of compensation. as Officers’ Service Regulations (OSR). Only Whole- Another set of factors is also pertinent. The Time Directors, including CEOs, are contractual Government of India’s mandate is for all PSBs; it appointees with their compensation fixed by GoI; is not for a section of officers. When work is equal, they are not governed by the OSR. Workmen can an employee of ‘X’ PSB cannot be compensated less become officers through internal promotions, so than her peer in ‘Y’ PSB. The PCR recognised this the salary structures of workmen and officers are principle over four decades ago; for good reasons, also inter-related. it upheld the relevance of equal pay for equal work. This mechanism helped to promote stable industrial Different pay structures within the PSBs create relations in the industry, with virtually no work another serious problem: when top-level officers of stoppages taking place while these agreements one PSB are transferred to another, what pay-scale have sustained. There have been token strikes on should they receive at the new organisation? Linking policy issues – privatisation, mergers, the voluntary wage revision to performance is unreasonable for retirement scheme – but they were tokenistic other reasons. Most bank staff has no control over protests anchored in ideology. Well before the expiry policy issues – decisions are taken by owners and owner-appointed boards. Large loans which caused of the existing settlement in October 2017, the the other crisis, are sanctioned by each bank’s top unions submitted their Charters of Demands to the officials, with very little say by others. Poor corporate IBA. IBA continued the established practice with performance, over which they have no control, a mandate from GoI to negotiate with the unions. cannot be used to deny a legitimate wage hike to All the PSBs, however, did not give full mandate: the entire community of staff. Performance should five wanted the wage revision negotiations tobe be rewarded through incentives; wage fixation has restricted up to the officers in scale III. The BOAs to be related to both internal and external factors. questioned the departure from the earlier system This is what the unions have been demanding. and negotiations broke down. Carry the employees together A system derailed A service industry like banking needs to work as The current impasse arises from two new lines of a team. The challenges – upgrading technology, thinking among the management of PSBs. One is building skills, achieving better customer that, since executives cannot be members of the orientation, resolving stressed assets, and financial associations, their salary should not be a subject inclusion – demand collective effort. Seldom have of bipartite negotiation with BOAs. (That executives PSBs undertaken an independent survey of their HR cannot unionise is fundamentally flawed, but needs environment. One rare survey in 2006, identified a larger space to deliberate.) The second new idea is serious risks of deepening frustration and alienation, of linking compensation to performance. These have low motivation and fragile work-life balance. It derailed the bipartite system itself. Both in principle highlighted the weakness of HR management at that and practice, the IBA stand defies logic. In 1974 bank, but the situation is no different elsewhere. itself PCR had recognised that the salary structure Rather, it has worsened in the decade since. The of supervisory staff of different grades/scales should scope of bilateral discussions needs to be widened be telescopic, as they are interlinked. Further, there to cover all these fields and issues. However, IBA’s cannot be watertight compartments regarding the new strategy ignores them. It will take PSBs back role of the officers in respective grades. In principle, to the chaotic compensation system that prevailed an executive in Scale VI heading a large branch and before 1969. What PSBs need today is to get over a junior officer in Scale-II heading a medium-sized the vexed issue of wage negotiation and collectively branch, have an identical role; only the business work to promote an institutional environment volume differs. It is common for officers to officiate that is professionally rewarding and intellectually at a higher grade when there are unfilled vacancies. satisfying for its employees. All officers, irrespective of their scales, are governed (This article was published in the E-zine – ‘The by the same OSR. Keeping some classes of officers Wire’ on 26/12/2018. Sri T R Bhat was the former out of the common process of wage fixation can look General Secretary, President and Chairman of like discrimination. CBOO and the founder editor of OV) Officers’ Voice, January 2019 43

3. Ms. Roseline Castelino, Assistant Retirements Manager, Mangalore-M. G. Road (Mangalore Zone)

A. The following members will be retiring from Ms. Castelino joined the Bank in the services of the Bank on attaining the age of July, 1980 as Typist Cum Clerk. superannuation on 31st January, 2019: She was promoted to Officers’ Cadre in JMG Scale I in April, 2016. 1. Mr. Nageswara Rao K, Assistant General Manager, Zonal Office During 38 years of service, she worked at Head Hyderabad Office - Staff Provident Fund Section, Vigilance Cell, Human Resource Department, Personnel Sri Rao joined the Bank as a Clerk Administration Division, H. R. D & Trg Division, in January, 1978. He was promoted Support Services Division, Chairman’s Secretariat, to Officers’ Cadre in JMG Scale Financial & Risk Management Division and I in July, 1983. He was promoted Mangalore -Zonal Office. as Manager in MMG Scale II in June, 1997. He 4. Mr. K Jayarama Joisa, Deputy became Senior Manager in Scale III in February, General Manager, Circle Audit 2003. He was elevated as Chief Manager in Scale IV Office, Mumbai in August, 2008 and as Assistant General Manager in Scale V in March, 2013. Sri Joisa joined the Bank as Agricultural Field Officer in JMG During 41 years of service, he worked at Adoni, Scale I in September, 1980. He Hyderabad-Badi Chowdi, Cuddapah, Mumbai-A. R. was promoted as Manager in MMG Street, Hyderabad-Siddiamber Bazar, Sadapuram Scale II in March, 1994 and as (Aarekal), Chirala, Visakhapatnam-Dwarakanagar, Senior Manager in Scale III in July, 1998. He became Ranchi, Kakinada, Masulipatnam, Kolkata-Retail Chief Manager in SMG Scale IV in November, 2004. Hub, Kolkata - Dharamtolla, Vijayawada-Main, He was elevated as Assistant General Manager Mumbai-Kalbadevi (CBB) and Mumbai-Lower Parel. in Scale V in June, 2008 and as Deputy General Manager in TEG Scale VI in March, 2013. Sri Rao was a member of the 11th Executive Committee and served the cause of the officers During 38 years of service, he worked at Mangalore- as Regional Secretary of Hyderabad Regional Staff Training College, Bangalore-Yelahanka, unit from 1991-93. Virajpet – Main, Madikeri, Somwarpet, Kogri- Shanthigrama, Head Office - Recovery Division, 2. Mr. M Sripad Kamath, Assistant Delhi - Kamala Nagar, Sakleshpur, Head Office Manager, New Delhi-ARMB (Delhi – Development of Priority Sector Lending, Retail - North) Lending Division, Bangalore - Retail Asset Hub, Sri Kamath joined the Bank in Ahmedabad - Zonal Office, Bangalore - Circle Audit Office, and Bangalore - CBB. December, 1978 as Typist Cum Clerk. He was promoted to Officers’ 5. Mr. Balachandran Pillai T G, Cadre JMG Scale I in May, 1986. Senior Manager, Mumbai - Large Corporate Lending Branch During 40 years of service, he worked at Head (Greater Mumbai Zone) Office - Business Planning & Dev. Department, New Delhi-Bhikaji Cama Place, Connaught Circus, Sri Pillai joined the Bank as a Ahmedabad - Shahibaug Cross Road, Delhi - Stenographer in September, Chandni Chowk, New Delhi - ARMB and Service 1982. He was promoted to Officers’ Cadre in JMG Scale I in November, 1997. Branch. He became Manager in MMG Scale II in December,

Live a life whose plot is simple, And does not thicken with every pimple. Officers’ Voice, January 2019 44

2004 and Senior Manager in Scale III in March, 2010. MMG Scale II in October, 2006. During 36 years of service, he worked at Mumbai- During 35 years of service, she worked at Head Regional Office, Fort, Industrial Finance Branch, Office - Printing & Stationery Division, Udupi- Overseas, IIBD, Kolkata - Dharamtolla, Mumbai - Regional Office, Kurkal, Panemangalore, Bantwal, Industrial Finance Branch, A. R. Street, Tirupur Hubli - New Cotton Market, Hubli - Zonal Office, and Ernakulam. Mangalore - Juppu, Tadambail, Sakleshpur, 6. Mr. Dharshan Singh Rawat, Mangalore - Zonal Office, Padavu and Moodbidri. Senior Manager, Zonal Office, 9. Mr. Madhukar Mahabaleswar Meerut Vernekar, Assistant Manager, Sri Rawat joined the Bank as a Dharwad - High Court Road Clerk in October, 1982. He was (Hubli Zone) promoted to Officers’ Cadre in JMG Scale I in May, 1995. He Sri Vernekar joined the Bank as became Manager in MMG Scale II a Clerk in April, 1984. He was in December, 2004 and Senior Manager in Scale III promoted to Officers’ Cadre in - in July, 2014. JMG Scale I in September, 2007. During 36 years of service, he worked at Varanasi, During 34 years of service, he worked at Bastora, Allahabad, New Delhi-Regional Office, Zonal Office, Mapuca, Hubli - Coen Road, New Cotton Market, Bhikaji Cama Place, Greater Kailash, Chandigarh, Bagalkot- Navanagar, Haveri and Dharwad. Amritsar, Panchkula, Jinaj, Yamunanagar, Ponta 10. Mr. N Ramakrishna, Senior Sahib and Nakur. Manager, Bilgi (Belgaum Zone) 7. Mr. D Ravi Kumar General Manager, Head Office - Recovery Sri Ramakrishna joined the Bank Division as Agricultural Field Officer in JMG Scale I in June, 1984. He Sri Ravi Kumar joined the Bank was promoted as Manager in as Agricultural Field Officer in MMG Scale II in October, 1998. JMG Scale I in May, 1983. He was He became Senior Manager in Scale III in August, promoted as Manager in MMG 2008. Scale II in December, 1994 and as Senior Manager in Scale III in January, 2001. He became Chief During 34 years of service, he worked at Kurkal, Manager in SMG Scale IV in June, 2005. He was Varamballi, Bhadravathi - B. H. Road, Hassan elevated as Assistant General Manager in Scale V - Regional Office, Sakleshpur, Kakkabbe, in June, 2009. He became Deputy General Manager Sankeshwar, Kolhapur and Hubli - Z. O. Marketing in TEG Scale VI in September, 2014 and General Hub. Manager in Scale VII in April, 2017. 11. Ms. Gayathri Raghavendra, During 35 years of service, he worked at Dodballapur, Manager, Udupi – Main (Udupi Bangalore-Zonal Office, Banavase, Yeshwanthapura- Zone) Malur, Bangalore-Mahalakshi Layout, RPC Layout, New Delhi - Vasant Kunj, Bangalore-Basavanagudi, Ms. Gayathri joined the Bank Srinagar, Mumbai - Bandra, Bangalore - M. G. Road as a Clerk in August, 1984. She and Hyderabad - Zonal Office. was promoted to Officers’ Cadre 8. Ms. B Mamatha M Baliga, in JMG Scale I in April, 2008. Manager, Head Office - She became Manager in MMG Scale II in July, Inspection & Audit Division, 2014. Ms. Mamatha joined the Bank in During 34 years of service, she worked at June, 1983 as Typist Cum Clerk. Udupi- Main, Manipal, Malpe, Udupi - Ambalpady, She was promoted to Officers’ Mulky, Muloor, Padubidri, Katapady and Udupi- Cadre in JMG Scale I in November, Kuthpadi. 1997. She became Manager in Officers’ Voice, January 2019 45

12. Mr. C Venkatesh Babu, During 33 years of service, he worked at Thyavanige, Assistant Manager, Bangalore- Kushalnagar, Madikeri, Bangalore - Rajajingar, Peenya Branch (Bangalore North) Vadodara - PBB, K. G. F. –Robertsonpet, Shanthalli and Kollegala. Sri Babu joined the Bank as a Clerk in August, 1984. He was promoted 15. Mr. Bijaya Kumar Mohapatra, to Officers’ Cadre in JMG Scale I in Assistant Manager, Cuttack - August, 2003. Bidanasi (Bhubaneshwar Zone)

During 34 years of service, he worked at Mangalore- Sri Mohapatra joined the Bank Bunder, Ananthapur, Hindupur, Bathalapalli, as a Clerk in June, 1985. He was New Delhi - Greater Kailash, Hyderabad - promoted to Officers’ Cadre in JMG Scale I in April, 2016. Kukatpally, Bangalore – Byadarahalli, Magadi and Yeshwanthapura Malur. During 33 years of service, he worked at Cuttack, Orissa State Bar Council, Kacheri Road and 13. Mr. Jyothirlingappa K, Bhubaneshwar. Assistant General Manager, Circle Audit Office, Bangalore 16. Mr. Prabir Kumar Dey, Assistant Manager, Behrampur Sri Jyothirlingappa joined the Branch (Kolkata Zone) Bank in December, 1984 as Typist Cum Clerk. He was promoted to Sri Prabir Kumar joined the Bank Officers’ Cadre in JMG Scale I in February, 1994. in December, 1986 as Typist He became Manager in MMG Scale II in December, Cum Clerk. He was promoted to 2004 and Senior Manager in Scale III in March, Officers’ Cadre in JMG Scale I in 2010. He was elevated as Chief Manager in SMG April, 2010. Scale IV in September, 2014 and became Assistant During 33 years of service, he worked at Kolkata- General Manager in Scale V in July, 2018. Canning Street, Barbourne Road, CPBB, Howrah During 34 years of service, he worked at Davanagere -Main, Muzaffurpur and Kolkata-Rash Bihari Avenue. - P. B. Road, Head Office- Branches Inspection Department, IAD, New Delhi - Connaught Circus, 17. Mr. P B Neelakantan Nair, Moradabad, Bangalore - Industrial Finance Branch, Manager, Thiruvanantapuram - Mumbai - Amboli, Andheri (West), Fort, Mangalore Zonal Office - Pandeshwar, Mumbai- Zonal Audit Office, Head Sri Neelakantan joined the Bank Office -NRI Cell, Delhi - Chandni Chowk and Circle as a Clerk in April, 1999. He was Audit Office. promoted to Officers’ Cadre JMG 14. Mr. Somappa, Senior Scale I in April, 2010. He became Manager Mysore - Main (Mysore Manager in MMG Scale II in July, Zone) 2014.

Sri Somappa joined the Bank During 19 years of service, he worked at Mezhuveli, in January, 1985 as Typist Kottayam, Malakkallu and Kollad. Cum Clerk. He was promoted to B. VOLUNTARY RETIREMENT Officers’ Cadre in JMG Scale I in November, 1997. He became Manager in MMG The following members retired from the Bank Scale II in October, 2007 and Senior Manager in voluntarily, under Regulation 29 of Pension Regulations during October, 2018: Scale III in May, 2016.

Life cannot go on without much forgetting. Officers’ Voice, January 2019 46

1. Ms. Jaya Lakshiminath, Assistant Manager, Zonal Office circular round up - Bangalore South Ms. Jaya joined the Bank as a 1. Circular on GST – Action Points Clerk in August, 1980. She was (FMD – HO Circular No. 699/2018 dated 15.11.2018) promoted to Officers’ Cadre in Details on special provision in GST Act with regard JMG Scale I in May, 1986. to the customers from Special Economic Zones During 38 years of service, she (SEZs) Units/Developers are furnished in the worked at Mangalore - Pandeshwar, Head Office - Circular. The services rendered by the Bank to the Human Resources Department, Mangalore - Zonal customers from SEZ Units/Developers amount to Office, Hassan- Main, Kakinada, Head Office -PAD Export of Services and the GST amount collected (Officers Wing), Bangalore - Zonal Office, NOIDA - S M is treated as IGST. The GST collected from these E, Vijayawada - Benz Circle, Belgaum - Nehru Nagar, customers is required to be refunded subsequently Belgaum - Retail Loan Centre, Ahmedabad - Retail by HO-FMD (Tax Cell). Hub, Mangalore - Retail Loan Centre and Head Office - Branch Expansion & Support Service Division. 2. Obtention of In-Principle Clearance from Zonal Offices – Clarifications/ Modified Common 2. Mr. O Praseed Kumar, Format Assistant Manager, Kozhikode (Priority Sector Division, HO Circular No. 703/2018 dated Currency Chest (Kochi Zone) 16.11.2018) Sri Praseed Kumar joined the Bank in May, 1985 as Peon. He was The circular enumerates the points to be considered promoted as Clerk in January, for according in-principle clearance & introduction 1991. He became Officer in JMG of revised common format for facilitating speedy Scale I in September, 2012. clearance. During 33 years of service, he worked at Kannur, 3. Fake Mobile Numbers of Branches in Google Kasaragod, Tellicherry, Tiruvallur, Thalassery – search engine Chirakkara, Bovikan and Payyanur. (IRMD, HO Circular No. 706/2018 dated 17.11.2018)

CBOO thanks all these members for their Cyber fraudsters/attackers have edited the Bank’s support and co-operation and wishes them a search results as far as contact numbers are happy, healthy and contented retired life. concerned. The fraudsters have edited and inserted their mobile numbers in the Bank details on Google ADIEU search result. Different customers in need contact With the current January, 2019 Edition of our these fake mobile numbers and fall victim of the prestigious monthly house magazine, I am fraudsters’ activities. completing my job assigned to me to work as ‘Editor’ of OV in January, 2016. I am proud, my 4. Security Measures for Cheque Clearing beloved members have given me a rank next to process – Reiteration of Instructions the legendary, Sri T R Bhat and the dedicated, (O & M Division, HO Circular No. 708/2018 dated Sri D N Prakash in this responsible task. Though I have not outshined my predecessors, I have 19.11.2018) sincerely endeavoured to ensure it continued in Circular reiterates earlier guidelines regarding SMS the same standard and state, I was entrusted alerts for inward cheques of Rs. 25000.00 & above, with. I Thank all my dearest members for their support, feedback and encouragement during the sending of excel file containing the details of cheques last three years in discharge of my role as Editor. of Rs. 25000.00 and above by the Service Branch to I am sure, the voice of officers of Corporation Bank the Base Branch, confirmation by the Base Branch will be reflected in future too in the‘Officers’ Voice’ the genuineness of the inward clearing cheques of more eloquently and responsively than before, in its Rs. 200000.00 & above to the Service Branch and march towards the Golden Jubilee of uninterrupted Verification of the outward clearing cheques of Rs. publication. Greetings to all readers. 50000.00 & above under UV Lamp at the presenting - Ekanath Baliga branches. Officers’ Voice, January 2019 47

5. Digital Signature Certificate (E-Token) 9. Generation of Credit Information Reports. (HRM & PAD, HO Circular No. 709/2018 dated 19.11.2018) (Retail Lending Division, HO Circular No. 730/2018 dated 29.11.2018) The details of Digital Certificate issuing authority, authorised officials, types of Digital Certificates, Credit Information Report shall be generated by the procedure to apply for DSC, documents to sanctioning authority within 3 days before sanction of the credit proposal. accompany DSC application form, procedure to be followed on Receipt of E – Token, surrendering of 10. New Scheme launched on “Modified Claims E-Token and other operational issues are furnished Tribunal Agreed Procedure” in the circular. (R & D Division, HO Circular No. 732/2018 dated 30.11.2018) 6. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Credit Monitoring As directed by the Hon’ble High Court of Delhi, (Credit Monitoring Division, HO Circular No. 715/2018 Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) has formulated a special scheme for disbursement of the dated 21.11.2018) compensation amount to the victims of road Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for different accidents so that the compensation amount will be facets of credit monitoring are enclosed as Annexure disbursed by the Claims Tribunals to the claimants for ready reference by the Branch Heads/officials in a phased manner. The Model scheme formulated working in Branches and other Controlling Offices. by IBA consists of a Savings Bank Account Scheme named as ‘MACT Claims SB account.’ Fixed Deposit 7. Procurement and Maintenance of First Aid account is named as ‘Motor Accident Claims Fire Extinguishers Annuity Deposit (MACAD) product. (Security Division, HO Circular No. 723/2018 dated 11. Rejection of Loan applications under Priority 27.11.2018) Sector Advances The circular emphasises the need for maintaining (Priority Sector Division, HO Circular No. 733/2018 dated safety equipments at all our Branches & offices, the 30.11.2018) background, current scenario, the maintenance Rejection of proposals under Agriculture, MSE, issues, disposal of the equipments and the Education loans, Govt. sponsored schemes & expenditure etc. applications received from persons belonging to SC/STs under Priority Sector should be done only 8. Request for Change in Customers’ Mobile by the next higher sanctioning authority. Number Linked to the Account – a Caution to be Exercised 12. Promotion of BHIM Aadhaar Pay (Fraud Monitoring Cell, HO Circular No. 727/2018 dated (E B & D C Division, HO Circular No. 734/2018 dated 28.11.2018) 30.11.2018)

Considering the utility of Mobile numbers in banking Bank has entered into a tie up with Manipal Business Solutions (MBS) to provide further fillip transactions, it has been observed that fraudsters for promotion of BHIM Aadhaar product and try to exploit this to defraud the customers/Bank. achieve the target of deploying 48000 devices set by In view of the same, whenever a request for change Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology in mobile number is received, Branches should (MEITY) by 31.03.2019. scrutinise the same carefully as per guidelines and ascertain the genuineness of the request, identity 13. Security /Inspection Needs at Currency of the applicant/account, need for change of the Chests (Premises Division, HO Circular No. 736/2018 dated mobile number and ensure that only legitimate 30.11.2018) mobile number is updated. Branches should avoid considering request for change of mobile numbers Revised Guidelines have been issued for Fire Audit of other Branch customers. of Currency Chests. The Zonal Offices and

Always know in your heart that you are far bigger than anything that can happen to you. - Dan Zandra Officers’ Voice, January 2019 48

Currency Chests shall ensure that RBI directions 18. Interest Equalisation Scheme on Pre and are complied with in letter and spirit. Post Shipment Rupee Export Credit (CPPS, Credit Division, HO Circular No. 750/2018 dated 14. New Agriculture Marketing Infrastructure 05.12.2018) Scheme (AMI) (Priority Sector Division, HO Circular No. 740/2018 dated Interest Equalisation rate is increased from 3% 03.12.2018) to 5% in respect of exports by the Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) sector manufacturers Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India has under the Interest Equalisation Scheme on Pre and given approval for implementation of new AMI sub Post Shipment Rupee Export Credit with effect from - scheme of Integrated Scheme for Agricultural 02.11.2018. Marketing (ISAM), w.e.f. 22.10.2018 up to 31.03.2020. 19. Opening of Demat Accounts for Staff Members – Waiver of Annual Maintenance Charges 15. Reiteration of Guidelines on Opening of (T & I Department, HO Circular No. 751/2018 dated Account and Issuance of Corp Instant Debit 06.12.2018) Card Annual Maintenance charges are waived for 2 years (KYC & AML Division, HO Circular No. 741/2018 dated for staff members. All staff members are requested 03.12.2018) to open Demat accounts. Blank Demat account Guidelines regarding mandatory sending of thanks opening forms are available in Bank’s intranet letter to the customer upon opening of account and under O & M Portal. Brief Guidelines are enclosed delivery of Corp Instant Card at the time of opening as Annexure to the circular. of the account are reiterated. 20. Recovery of Dues Under Revenue Recovery Act 16. Exhorting Court Orders on IBA in Recovery (Legal Services Division, HO Circular No. 752/2018 dated Cases 07.12.2018) (Legal Services Division, HO Circular No. 742/2018 dated Recovery of Loans under the Revenue Recover Act 04.12.2018) enables auctioning the property of the defaulter which are not offered as Security to the Bank. No The Branches/offices are advised to desist from court fees, no Advocate fees are involved and is an praying for any orders from any court on IBA or for effective method of recovery of loans in rural areas. relief from IBA in any recovery matter. If any prayer is made, arrangements may be made to withdraw 21. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana – Coverage the same. of Overdue / NPA Crop Loan Accounts (Priority Sector Division, HO Circular No. 757/2018 dated 17. Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) For 11.12.2018) Pre/Post Sanction Activities (CPPS, Credit Division, HO Circular No. 749/2018 dated In case of loanee farmers having regular crop loan 05.12.2018) availed for notified crops in notified areas, the coverage under the scheme is compulsory and for The details on Standard Operating Procedure non-loanee farmers, the scheme is optional. As (SOP) on Pre-sanction/Post-sanction activities per the revised PMFBY guidelines, farmers having are furnished in Annexure – I to the circular. The overdue/NPA crop loans shall not be covered details of the role/responsibilities of functionaries compulsorily. However, branches may facilitate involved in the process of Credit Administration of such farmers for enrolment as a non-loanee Commercial Advances is furnished as Annexure farmer. Branches should explore every possibility – II and flow chart for sanction/renewal/review of coverage of crop loan borrowers, as the crop to of commercial credit proposals is furnished in be grown is also hypothecated to the Bank for the Annexure - III. existing crop loan liability.

We don’t stop laughing because we grow old – we grow old because we stop laughing. - Micheal Pritchard Officers’ Voice, January 2019 49

22. Circular on GST matter – Expenses incurred by the Bank that attracts the Reverse Charge miscellany Mechanism of GST (Specified Services) (FMD, HO Circular No. 758/2018 dated 12.12.2018) After Banks, Insurance Cos Weigh Legal Backing On certain specified services including Goods for Staff Transport Agencies (GTA), the Bank is liable to After banks, insurance companies are looking pay GST under Reverse Charge Mechanism. The to provide legal and financial support to their Government has allowed the Goods Transport employees being probed by investigating agencies Agencies (GTA) to charge on forward charges also. for business decisions-seemingly taken in good The services of the GTA attract either reverse faith-gone wrong. The General Insurance Public charge or forward charge based on the type of Sector Association (GIPSA), a body of state-run service provider. general insurers, has approved such a policy and 23. External Due Diligence Agencies whose asked members to get board approval to implement Services have been Discontinued it. A senior executive with an insurance company (Retail lending Division, HO Circular No. 759/2018 dated confirmed the development and said the policy is 12/12/2018) similar to the one approved by the Indian Banks' Association (IBA), Details of the Due Diligence Agencies (DDA) whose services have been discontinued are furnished in “We have mostly followed that model in spirit, the circular. Branches, offices and RLCs shall not except for some minor changes which are meant entrust due diligence work to these agencies. for the insurance industry,” the official said.

24. Legal Decisions Affecting Bankers – Borrower The IBA proposed that lenders bear all legal has no right of hearing in proceedings under expenses in such cases, including providing section 14 of SARFAESI Act, 2002 an advocate when required. The IBA’s action (Legal Services Division, HO Circular No. 761/2018 dated was triggered after Bank of Maharashtra CEO R 14.12.2018) Marathe and Executive Director PK Gupta were Borrowers do not have a right to be heard in arrested by the state police. The charges against application before DM/CMM under Section 14 of them were later withdrawn. “The insurance sector SARFAESI Act, 2002. The Tenant has a right to be is somewhat more complicated and we have seen heard before issuance of the order under section officials being under undue scrutiny for business 14, so as to ascertain the existence of a valid and decisions gone wrong,” said a GIPSA executive, genuine tenancy. making a case for quick approvals by the boards of member-insurers. 25. Legal Decisions Affecting Bankers – Service Tax on Credit Card Services “Take the case of TS Vijayan, who bounced back (Legal Services Division, HO Circular No. 762/2018 dated from a demotion at LIC and multiple investigations 15.12.2018) into allegations of irregularities to become the insurance regulator,” the executive added. Another In Credit Card Services, the acquiring bank is industry executive, however, said that unlike discharging the service tax liability on the amount in banking, there aren’t such grey areas in the received towards service charges and therefore, the insurance sector. issuing bank is not liable to pay service tax on the amount paid to it by the acquiring bank. “The Insurance companies are reeling under heavy losses-it makes no sense to take such action and 26. Manual on Settlement of Claims - Revised bear additional costs,” he said, adding that the (O & M Division, HO Memorandum No. 187/2018 dated Government should instead set up an over sight 05.12.2018) committee to look into allegations against top The Manual on ‘Settlement of Claims’ is revised management officials before any formal action and uploaded on O & M Portal. Branches and is taken. The Government is expected to merge offices may access the same for their information National Insurance, Oriental Insurance and United and guidance. India Insurance by 2019. The Finance Ministry Officers’ Voice, January 2019 50 reviewed the progress of the state-run general for extension of the date of compliance. In view insurance companies in October and kick-started of that, the deadline has been extended and the ‘Insurance Manthan’ to optimize their performance. aforesaid requirement of transfer of securities Financial services secretary Rajiv Kumar said in a only in demat form shall now come into force from tweet at that time, “Aim is to develop comprehensive April, 2019. Earlier, SEBI had amended relevant reform agenda in six themes to modernize Public provisions of the Listing Obligations and Disclosure Sector GICs. Committed to work towards safety Requirements Regulations, 2015 to disallow listed net of all citizens.” The initiative’s six-point agenda companies from accepting requests for transfer includes sustainable and prudent business, talent of securities that are held in physical form from management and customer orientation. December 5. - The Economic Times, 06/12/2018 Although, investors can continue to hold shares Physical shares: SEBI extends deadline for and securities in the physical form even after the demat to April 1 deadline, they will not be able to place the shares with the company or its registrar and transfer agent SEBI has extended the deadline for compulsory for further transfers. The amendment targets fraud dematerialization of shares held in physical form and manipulation in physical transfer of securities to next April 1 from December 5. On March 28, by unscrupulous persons, apart from improving SEBI decided that requests for effecting transfer ease, convenience and safety of transactions for of securities shall not be processed unless the investors. securities are held in the dematerialized form with a depository. SEBI in a statement on Monday said - The Hindu Business Line, 04/12/2018 it had received representations from shareholders

Health Watch

Here’s How You can Avoid Varicose Worry - Saliha Nasline

Fifty-two-year old Lata, a teacher by profession, General and Vascular Surgeon. Manipal Hospitals, started experiencing aches and cramps in her legs. Bengaluru. Though it is believed that the elderly Her legs would also turn heavy and sore. After are more prone to develop varicose veins, nowadays taking one or two classes, her ankles and feet even the younger generation is showing up with would swell too. She related these things to her this problem, attributable largely to their lifestyle, recent menopause and dismissed them at first, he added. believing time would be the healer: But that was not to be. Prominent dark purple vessels came to DEEPER THAN IT APPEARS be visible on her thighs and calves. Suspecting “Varicose veins are large, swollen veins that usually that it could be varicose veins, she consulted her appear on the legs and feet when the valves in the physician, who confirmed that indeed it was and veins do not work properly, preventing effective complimented her for presenting herself early for return of the blood from the legs,” said Rao. Pain diagnosis and treatment. She was taught basic self-care and advised follow-ups.But not everyone is only one part of the problem and there are can stop at this.“In a majority of cases, treatment is bigger dangers of neglecting varicose veins.“People recommended,” said Dr. Rahul Sheth, interventional with varicose veins are at an increased risk for a radiologist. Saifee Hospital, Mumbai. “It is a very dangerous type of blood clot known as deep vein common condition in India with more than 10 thrombosis," Rao said. This happens in the deep million cases annually,” said Dr. UV Vasudeva Rao, veins of the leg and is not visible externally. Officers’ Voice, JanuaryJanuary 20192019 51

Dr Shoaib Padaria, director of Vascular Science Dr. UV Vasudeva Rao, General and Vascular at Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, Surgeon, Manipal Hospitals, “While walking, the said: “Untreated varicose veins can cause many contraction of the calf muscle acts a powerful pump problems. Large veins are prone to formation of which sends the venous blood of the legs back blood clots, which in some instances can travel to towards the heart. If this action is not performed for the heart and lungs and cause a life-threatening prolonged periods, the pressure of the accumulated condition called pulmonary embolism. Varicose venous blood in the legs can lead to varicose veins,” veins can rupture and may be responsible for severe Padaria explained. Sheth didn’t want to pinpoint any bleeding. If untreated, the pressure of the blood profession as being problematic. However, “there in the varicose veins can cause pigmentation of are certain circumstances- like a job involving long skin around the ankles with development of ankle standing time-which can lead to the worsening of ulcers,” he added. the condition,” he said. The most disregarded cause, however is sitting in one position for a prolonged TREATING IT period of time. In today’s world of IT, professionals Consulting a doctor at the earliest and timely with long working hours in front of their computer treatment were things that the experts stressed on. screens and long hours of work travel are only If not treated on time, varicose veins can turn into a increasing their risk for varicose veins, Rao said. chronic condition. “One method to alleviate the pain When we sit for long periods, gravity causes pooling is to use special compression stockings. Another is of blood in the vessels of the legs, making them to take medicines which increase the flow of blood. swell up. Sitting cross-legged and poor posture are But these methods are temporary remedies,” Sheth the other mistakes we make. Hormonal influences said. For someone having significant varicose veins, during pregnancy or menopause and even the the best treatment is endovenous laser, the offending use of birth-control pills can cause varicose vein is treated and closed down, Sheth explained. vein.“Therefore, the risk of varicose veins in women DON’T TAKE IT LIGHTLY is significantly higher than that in men,” Rao said. There is some data to suggest that hormonal Untreated varicose veins can cause many conditions such as thyroid hormone deficiency problems. Large veins are prone to formation of and PCOD in women can exacerbate varicose, said blood clots, which in some instances can travel to Padaria. As with multiple other health problems, the heart and lungs and cause a life-threatening smoking, sedentary lifestyle and obesity are known condition called pulmonary embolism. culprits here too.

According to Dr Shoaib Padaria, Director of LIVE RIGHT TO PREVENT PAIN vascular Science, Mumbai, an active lifestyle with weight control can go a long way to relieve the There may be no foolproof preventive method, symptoms of varicose veins. but make sure you move enough. Padaria said: “In persons who have a standing or sitting job, ARE SOME MORE AT RISK? it is recommended that they exercise their legs Many factors-such as age, family history and and ankles every hour for about five minutes. gender-can increase a person’s risk of developing The easiest way is to walk for short distances at varicose veins. The type of work you do may also periodic intervals,” Regular exercise definitely matter. Any activity that restricts blood flow in the helps and walking is a top recommendation, Rao legs can be a cause of varicose veins. Veins in your advised: Do simple leg exercises at your work desk, legs help in returning blood to the heart, and calf take a five minute walk every one-two hours. Avoid muscles have a key role in this process as they tight clothes. Girls, opt for flats instead of heels. contract when the legs are in motion. If you have Wearing knee-length compression stockings can a job that doesn’t allow much movement for hours, work wonders because they not only prevent the these veins have a tendency to become weaker and phenomenon but also strengthen calf muscles and you may develop varicose veins. increase blood flow, Rao said. Since obesity is one YOUNG AFFECTED TOO of the leading causes of varicose veins, a healthy diet with regular exercise is important to keep your It is a very common condition in India with more weight in check, he added. than 10 million cases annually. Nowadays, even the younger generation is showing up with this problem. - The Economic Times, 17/07/2018 52 Officers’Officers’ Voice Voice, (RNI, Delhi January Regn. No.KARENG/ 2019 2005/14831) Postal Regn. No.MNG/128/2018-20 Licensed to Post Without Prepayment under Licence No. SK/WPP/MNG/115/2018-20 Office of Posting: Post Office, Kankanady – Mangalore Date of Posting : 1st of every month Annual Subscription for members: Rs.60/-

We can start our work by sorting complaints year-wise Sir....

The number of complaints has come I have a complaint to make against your down after we have put this man who "Complaint Department"... is stone deaf here...